Systems and methods for sample handling

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are provided for sample processing. A device may be provided, capable of receiving the sample, and performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing multiple assays. The device may comprise one or more modules that may be capable of performing one or more of a sample preparation, sample assay, and detection step. The device may be capable of performing the steps using a small volume of sample.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The majority of clinical decisions are based on laboratory and health test data, yet the methods and infrastructure for collecting such data severely limit the quality and utility of the data itself. Almost all errors in laboratory testing are associated with human or pre-analytic processing errors, and the testing process can take days to weeks to complete. Often times by the time a practicing physician gets the data to effectively treat a patient or determine the most appropriate intervention, he or she has generally already been forced to treat a patient empirically or prophylactically as the data was not available at the time of the visit or patient triage. Earlier access to higher quality testing information at the time of patient triage enables earlier interventions and better management of disease progression to improve outcomes and lower the cost of care.

Existing systems and methods for clinical testing suffer major drawbacks from the perspectives of patients, medical care professionals, taxpayers, and insurance companies. Today, consumers can undergo certain specialized tests at clinics or other specialized locations. If a test is to be conducted and the result of which is to be eventually relied on by a doctor, physical samples are transported to a location which performs the test on the samples. For example, these samples may comprise blood from a venous draw and are typically collected from a subject at the specialized locations. Accessibility of these locations and the venipuncture process in and of itself is a major barrier in compliance and frequency of testing. Availability for visiting a blood collection site, the fear of needles—especially in children and elderly persons who, for example, often have rolling veins, and the difficulty associated with drawing large amounts of blood drives people away from getting tested even when it is needed. Thus, the conventional sampling and testing approach is cumbersome and requires a significant amount of time to provide test results. Such methods are not only hampered by scheduling difficulties and/or limited accessibility to collection sites for subjects to provide physical samples but also by the batch processing of samples in centralized laboratories and the associated turn around time in running laboratory tests. As a result, the overall turn around time involved in getting to the collection site, acquiring the sample, transporting the sample, testing the sample and reporting and delivering results becomes prohibitive and severely limits the timely provision of the most informed care from a medical professional. This often results in treatment of symptoms as opposed to underlying disease conditions or mechanisms of disease progression.

In addition, traditional techniques are problematic for certain diagnoses. Some tests may be critically time sensitive, but take days or weeks to complete. Over such a time, a disease can progress past the point of treatment. In some instances, follow-up tests are required after initial results, which take additional time as the patient has to return to the specialized locations. This impairs a medical professional's ability to provide effective care. Furthermore, conducting tests at only limited locations and/or infrequently reduces the likelihood that a patient's status can be regularly monitored or that the patient will be able to provide the samples quickly or as frequently as needed. For certain diagnoses or conditions, these deficiencies inevitably cause inadequate medical responses to changing and deteriorating physiological conditions. Traditional systems and methods also affect the integrity and quality of a clinical test due to degradation of a sample that often occurs while transporting such sample from the site of collection to the place where analysis of the sample is performed. For example, analytes decay at a certain rate, and the time delay for analysis can result in loss of sample integrity. Different laboratories also work with different quality standards which can result in varying degrees of error. Additionally, preparation and analysis of samples by hand permits upfront human error to occur at various sample collection sites and laboratories. These and other drawbacks inherent in the conventional setup make it difficult to perform longitudinal analyses, especially for chronic disease management, with high quality and reliability

Furthermore, such conventional analytical techniques are often not cost effective. Excessive time lags in obtaining test results lead to delays in diagnoses and treatments that can have a deleterious effect on a patient's health; as a disease progresses further, the patient then needs additional treatment and too often ends up unexpectedly seeing some form of hospitalization. Payers, such as health insurance companies and taxpayers contributing to governmental health programs, end up paying more to treat problems that could have been averted with more accessible and faster clinical test results.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Being able to detect a disease or the onset of a disease in time to manage and treat it is a capability deeply sought after by patients and providers alike but one that has yet to be realized in the current healthcare system where detection too often coincides with fatal prognoses.

In some embodiments, a fluid handling system includes a fluid uptake and/or retention system. In some cases, a fluid handling system includes a pipette. In some embodiments, the fluid handling system is attached to each individual module among a plurality of modules of a system described above, alone or in combination with other systems. In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a housing that comprises a rack for supporting the plurality of modules. The housing can be dimensioned to be no more than 3 m³, or no more than 2 m³.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, comprises a control system having programmable commands for performing a point-of-service service at a designated location.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a fluid handling system. In some cases, the fluid handling system includes a pipette selected from the group consisting of a positive displacement pipette, air displacement pipette and suction-type pipette.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules. In some cases, an individual module comprises fluid handling tips configured to perform one or more of procedures selected from the group consisting of centrifugation, sample separation, immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and combinations thereof. In some situations, the nucleic acid assay is selected from the group consisting of nucleic acid amplification, nucleic acid hybridization, and nucleic acid sequencing.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules, and each individual module of said plurality of modules comprises (a) a fluid handling system configured to transfer a sample within said individual module or from said individual module to another module within said system, (b) a plurality of assay units configured to perform multiple types of assays, and (c) a detector configured to detect signals generated from said assays. In some situations, the multiple types of assays are selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules, and each individual module comprises a centrifuge.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, further comprises a module providing a subset of the sample preparation procedures or assays performed by at least one module of said system.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, comprises an assay station that includes a thermal block.

In some embodiments, a sample includes at least one material selected from the group consisting of fluid sample, tissue sample, environmental sample, chemical sample, biological sample, biochemical sample, food sample, or drug sample. In some cases, the sample includes blood or other bodily fluid, or tissue.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, is configured for two-way communication with a point of service server. In some cases, the two-way communication is wireless.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules, and each member of the plurality of modules is swappable with another module.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes an assay station that comprises discrete assay units. In some cases, the discrete assay units are fluidically isolated assay units.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, is configured for longitudinal analysis at a coefficient of variation less than or equal to 10%, or less than or equal to 5%, or less than or equal to 3%.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a fluid handling system that includes an optical fiber.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a fluid handling system that includes a pipette.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, comprises an image analyzer.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone in combination, comprises at least one camera in a housing of the system. In some cases, the at least one camera is a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. In some situations, the at least one camera is a lens-less camera.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, comprises a controller that includes programmable commands for performing a point-of-service service at a designated location.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, is a plug-and-play system configured to provide a point-of-service service. In some cases, the point-of-service service is a point of care service provided to a subject having a prescription from the subject's caretaker, said prescription being prescribed for testing the presence or concentration of an analyte from said subject's biological sample.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules, and each member of the plurality of modules comprises a communication bus in communication with a station configured to perform the at least one sample preparation procedure or the at least one type of assay.

In some embodiments, a system above, alone or in combination, includes a supporting structure. In some cases, the supporting structure is a rack. In some situations, the rack does not include a power or communication cable; in other situations, the rack includes a power or communication cable. In some embodiments, the supporting (or support) structure includes one or more mounting stations. In some cases, the supporting structure includes a bus in communication with a mounting station of said one or more mounting stations.

In some embodiments, the bus is for providing power to individual modules of the system. In some embodiments, the bus is for enabling communication between a controller of the system (e.g., plug-and-play system) and individual modules of the system. In some situations, the bus is for enabling communication between a plurality of modules of the system, or for enabling communication between a plurality of modules of a plurality of systems.

In some embodiments, a system, alone or in combination, includes a plurality of modules, and each individual modules of the plurality of modules is in wireless communication with a controller of the system. In some cases, wireless communication is selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth communication, radiofrequency (RF) communication and wireless network communication.

In some embodiments, a method for processing a sample, alone or in combination with other methods, comprises providing a system above, alone or in combination. The system comprises multiple modules configured to perform simultaneously (a) at least one sample preparation procedure selected from the group consisting of sample processing, centrifugation, magnetic separation and chemical processing, and/or (b) at least one type of assay selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and combinations thereof within a module. Next, the system (or a controller of the system) tests for the unavailability of resources or the presence of a malfunction of (a) the at least one sample preparation procedure or (b) the at least one type of assay. Upon detection of the malfunction within at least one module, the system uses another module within the system or another system in communication with the system to perform the at least one sample preparation procedure or the at least one type of assay.

In some cases, the system processes the sample at a point of service location.

In some cases, the system is in wireless communication with another system.

In some cases, multiple modules of the system are in electrical, electro-magnetic or optoelectronic communication with one another.

In some cases, multiple modules of the system are in wireless communication with one another.

An aspect of the invention includes a fluid handling apparatus comprising: a plurality of pipette heads, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from the pipette nozzle; a plurality of plungers that are individually movable, wherein at least one plunger is within a pipette head and is movable within the pipette head; and a motor configured to effect independent movement of individual plungers of the plurality.

Another aspect of the invention includes a fluid handling apparatus comprising a plurality of pipette heads, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from the pipette nozzle; a plurality of plungers that are individually movable, wherein at least one plunger is within a pipette head and is movable within the pipette head; and an actuator configured to effect independent movement of individual plungers of the plurality.

Another aspect of the invention includes a fluid handling apparatus comprising a plurality of pipette heads, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said pipette nozzle, wherein the fluid handling apparatus is capable of dispensing and/or aspirating 0.5 microliters (“uL”) to 5 milliliters (“mL”) of fluid while functioning with a coefficient of variation of 5% or less.

A fluid handling apparatus may be provided in accordance with an aspect of the invention, the apparatus comprising: at least one pipette head, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said nozzle; at least one plunger within a pipette head of said plurality, wherein the plunger is configured to be movable within the pipette head; and at least one motor configured to permit movement of the plurality of plunger that is not substantially parallel to the removable tip.

Another aspect of the invention provides a fluid handling apparatus comprising at least one pipette head, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said nozzle; at least one plunger within a pipette head of said plurality, and wherein the plunger is configured to be movable within the pipette head; and at least one actuator configured to permit movement of the plurality of plungers that are not substantially parallel to the removable tip.

Another aspect of the invention may provide a fluid handling apparatus comprising: at least one pipette head, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said nozzle, wherein said at least one pipette head has a fluid path of a given length that terminates at the pipette nozzle, and wherein the length of the fluid path is adjustable without affecting movement of fluid from the tip when the tip and the pipette nozzle are engaged.

Another aspect of the invention provides a fluid handling apparatus comprising at least one pipette head, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a tip that is removable from said nozzle, wherein said at least one pipette head has a fluid path of a given length that terminates at the pipette nozzle, and wherein the length of the fluid path is adjustable without affecting movement of fluid from the tip when the tip and the pipette nozzle are engaged.

Additionally, aspects of the invention may include a fluid handling apparatus comprising: a removable tip; and at least one pipette head, wherein an individual pipette head comprises a pipette nozzle configured to connect with the tip that is removable from said pipette nozzle, wherein the apparatus is operably connected to an image capture device that is configured to capture an image within and/or through the tip.

Other goals and advantages of the invention will be further appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and accompanying drawings. While the following description may contain specific details describing particular embodiments of the invention, this should not be construed as limitations to the scope of the invention but rather as an exemplification of preferable embodiments. For each aspect of the invention, many variations are possible as suggested herein that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art. A variety of changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit thereof.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are used, and the accompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 shows an example of a system comprising a sample processing device and an external controller in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a sample processing device.

FIG. 3 shows an example of a module having a sample preparation station, assay station, detection station, and a fluid handling system.

FIG. 4 provides an example of a rack supporting a plurality of modules having a vertical arrangement.

FIG. 5 provides an example of a rack supporting a plurality of modules having an array arrangement.

FIG. 6 illustrates a plurality of modules having an alternative arrangement.

FIG. 7 shows an example of a sample processing device having a plurality of modules.

FIG. 7A shows a non-limiting example of a sample processing device having a plurality of modules.

FIG. 7B shows a non-limiting example of a sample processing device having a plurality of modules.

FIG. 7C shows a non-limiting example of a sample processing device having a plurality of modules.

FIG. 8 shows a plurality of racks supporting one or more modules.

FIG. 9 shows an example of a module with one or more components communicating with a controller.

FIG. 10 shows a system having a plurality of modules mounted in bays (including, e.g., on the racks).

FIG. 11 shows a plurality of plots illustrating a parallel processing routine.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a fluid handling apparatus in a retracted position, provided in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12A shows a collapsed fluid handling apparatus as previously described, in a fully retracted position.

FIG. 12B shows a retracted fluid handling apparatus, in a full z-drop position.

FIG. 13 shows an example of a fluid handling apparatus in an extended position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of a fluid handling apparatus.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a fluid handling apparatus.

FIG. 16 shows another side view of a fluid handling apparatus.

FIG. 17 shows a rear perspective view of a fluid handling apparatus.

FIG. 18 provides an example of a fluid handling apparatus used to carry a sample processing component.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of a fluid handling apparatus useful for carrying a sample processing component.

FIG. 20 shows a point of service device having a display, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The display includes a graphical user interface (GUI).

FIG. 21 provides an example of an expand/contract elastomer deflection tip pick-up interface.

FIG. 22 provides an example of a vacuum gripper tip pick-up interface.

FIG. 23 provides an example of a pipette module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24A shows an example of modular pipette having a raised shuttle in a full dispense position.

FIG. 24B shows an example of modular pipette having a lowered shuttle in a full dispense position.

FIGS. 24C and 24D show non-limiting examples of pipette configurations according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 25A provides a top view of an example of a magnetic control.

FIG. 25B provides a side view of the magnetic control.

FIG. 26 provides an example of a cuvette and cuvette carrier.

FIG. 27A shows an example of a carrier (e.g., cuvette), in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27B shows additional views of a carrier (e.g., cuvette).

FIG. 28 shows an example of a tip.

FIG. 29 an example of a vial strip.

FIG. 30 shows another example of a vial strip.

FIGS. 31A-31G show non-limiting examples of spectrophotometers according to embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 32-33 show non-limiting examples of embodiments of cartridges as described herein.

FIG. 34-35 show non-limiting examples of cartridge covers according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 36 shows non-limiting examples of absorbant pad assembly according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 37 shows a non-limiting example of sample processing tip according to embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 38A and 38B show non-limiting examples of cartridges with thermal conditioning element(s) according to embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 39 to 40 show non-limiting examples of microfluidic cartridges according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 41 shows a non-limiting example of a cartridge according to embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 42 to 45 show non-limiting examples of thermal conditioning element(s) according to embodiments described herein.

FIGS. 46 to 50 show non-limiting examples of centrifuge vessel imaging configurations according to embodiments described herein.

FIG. 51 shows an example of a nucleic acid assay station.

FIG. 52 shows a schematic according to at least one embodiment described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention.

This document contains material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner (Applicant herein) has no objection to facsimile reproduction of the patent documents and disclosures, as they appear in the US Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. The following notice shall apply: Copyright 2013-15 Theranos, Inc.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a system. A system may comprise one or more sample processing device 100 that may be configured to receive a sample and/or to conduct multi-purpose analysis of one or more sample(s) or types of samples sequentially or simultaneously. Analysis may occur within the system. Analysis may or may not occur on the device. A system may comprise one, two, three or more sample processing devices. The sample processing devices may or may not be in communication with one another or an external device. Analysis may or may not occur on the external device. Analysis may be affected with the aid of a software program and/or a health care professional. In some instances, the external device may be a controller 110.

Systems for multi-purpose analysis may comprise one or more groups of sample processing devices. Groups of sample processing devices may comprise one or more device 100. Devices may be grouped according to geography, associated entities, facilities, rooms, routers, hubs, care providers, or may have any other grouping. Devices within groups may or may not be in communication with one another. Devices within groups may or may not be in communication with one or more external devices.

Sample processing devices may comprise one, two or more modules 130. Modules may be removably provided to the devices. Modules may be capable of effecting a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. In some embodiments, each module may be capable of effecting a sample preparation step, assay step, and detection step. In some embodiments, one or more modules may be supported by a support structure 120, such as a rack. Zero, one, two or more rack(s) may be provided for a device.

Modules may comprise one, two or more components 140 that may be capable of effecting a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. Module components may also include reagents and/or vessels or containers that may enable a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. Module components may assist with the sample preparation step, the assay step, and/or detection step. A device may comprise one or more component that is not provided within a module. In some instances, a component may be useful for only one of a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. Examples of components are provided in greater detail elsewhere herein. A component may have one or more subcomponents.

In some instances, a hierarchy may be provided wherein a system comprises one or more groups of devices, a group of devices comprises one or more device, a device may optionally comprise one or more rack which may comprise one or more module, a device may comprise one or more module, a module and/or device may comprise one or more components, and/or a component may comprise one or more subcomponents of the component. One or more level of the hierarchy may be optional and need not be provided in the system. Alternatively, all levels of hierarchy described herein may be provided within the system. Any discussion herein applying to one level of hierarchy may also apply to other levels of hierarchies.

A sample processing device is provided in accordance with an aspect of the invention. A sample processing device may comprise one or more components. The sample processing device may be configured to receive a sample and/or to conduct one or more sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. The sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step may be automated without requiring human intervention.

In some embodiments, a system provided herein may be configured as follows: The system may contain a sample processing device and, optionally an external device. The external device may be, for example, a remote server or cloud-based computing infrastructure. The sample processing device may contain a housing. Within the housing of the device, there may be one or more modules. The modules may be supported by a rack or other support structure. The modules may contain one or more components or stations. Components and stations of a module may include, for example, assay stations, detection stations, sample preparation stations, nucleic acid assay stations, cartridges, centrifuges, photodiodes, PMTs, spectrophotometers, optical sensors (e.g. for luminescence, fluorescence, absorbance, or colorimetry), cameras, sample handling systems, fluid handling systems, pipettes, thermal control units, controllers, and cytometers. Components and stations of a module may be removable or insertable into the module. The components and stations of a module may contain one or more sub-components or other items which may be part of or may be supported by a component or station. Sub-components may include, for example, assay units, reagent units, tips, vessels, magnets, filters, and heaters. Sub-components of a components or station may be removable or insertable into the component or station. In addition, the device may contain one or more additional components which may be part of a module, or which may be elsewhere in the device (e.g. on the housing, rack, or between modules) such as a controller, communication unit, power unit, display, sample handing system, fluid handling system, processor, memory, robot, sample manipulation device, detection unit. The system or device may have one or more cartridges. The cartridges may be insertable or removable from the device. The cartridges may contain, for example reagents for performing assays or biological samples. The device may have one or more controllers, including one or both of device-level and module-level controllers (e.g. where the device level controller is configured to direct certain procedures to be performed on certain modules and where the module level controller is configured to direct the components or stations to execute particular steps for sample preparation, sample assaying, or sample detection. In an alternative, a device-level controller may be connected to modules and components of the module, to perform both of these functions). The device may have one or more sample handling system, including both device-level and module-level sample handling system (e.g. where the device level sample handling system is configured to move samples or components between modules and where the module level sample handling system is configured to move samples or components within a module. In an alternative, a device level sample handling system may be configured to perform both of these functions). The sample processing device may be in two-way communication with the external device, such that the sample processing device is configured to send information to the external device, and also to receive information from the external device. The external device may, for example, send protocols to the sample processing device.

In some embodiments, a device may be or comprise a cartridge. The cartridge may be removable from a large device. Alternatively, the cartridge may be permanently affixed to or integral to the device. The device and/or the cartridge may (both) be components of a disposable such as a patch or pill. In some embodiments, an assay station may comprise a cartridge.

A cartridge may be a universal cartridge that can be configured for the same selection of tests. Universal cartridges may be dynamically programmed for certain tests through remote or on-board protocols. In some cases, a cartridge can have all reagents on board and optionally server-side (or local) control through two-way communication systems. In such a case, a system using such a disposable cartridge with substantially all assay reagents on board the cartridge may not require tubing, replaceable liquid tanks, or other aspects that demand manual maintenance, calibration, and compromise quality due to manual intervention and processing steps. Use of a cartridge provided herein containing all reagents within the cartridge necessary for performing one or more assays with a system or device provided herein may permit the device or system to not have any assay reagents or disposables stored within the device.

Referring now to FIG. 32, one embodiment of a cartridge 9900 will now be described. This embodiment shows that there may be a plurality of different regions 9920 to 9940 on the cartridge 9900 to provide different types of devices, tips, reagents, reaction locations, or the like. The mix of these elements depends on the types of assays to be performed using the cartridge 9900. By way of nonlimiting example, the cartridge 9900 may have regions to accommodate one or more sample containers, pipette tips, microscopy cuvette, large volume pipette tip, large volume reagent well, large volume strip, cuvette with a linear array of reaction vessel, round vessels, cap-removal tip, centrifuge vessel, centrifuge vessel configured for optical measurement(s), nucleic acid amplification vessels. Any one of the foregoing may be in the different regions 9920 to 9940. Some may arrange the tips and vessels in arrays similar to those of the cartridges shown in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 8,088,593, fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

By way of non-limiting example, the reagents may also vary in the cartridge and may be selected to include at least those desired to perform at least two or more types of assay panels such as but not limited to the lipid panel and a chem14 panel or other combination of two or more different laboratory testing panels. For example, some cartridges may have reagents, diluents, and/or reaction vessels to support at least two different assay types from nucleic acid amplification, general chemistry, immunoassay, or cytometry.

Any one or more of the components of the cartridge may be accessible by a sample handling system of the system. The different zones in the cartridge may be configured to match the pitch of the pipette heads used in the system. Optionally, some zones are configured to be at pitches that are multiples of or fractions of the pitch of the pipette heads. For example, some components of the cartridge are at ⅓× of the pitch, others at ½× of the pipette pitch, others at a 1× pitch, others at a 2× pitch, while still others at a 4× pitch.

Referring still to FIG. 32, it should be understood that there may be components located at one plane of the cartridge while other are located at lower or higher planes. For example, some components may be located below a cuvette or other component. Thus, once the upper component is removed, the lower components become accessible. This multi-layer approach provides for greater packing density in terms of components on a cartridge. There may also be locating features on the cartridge 9900 such as but not limited to rail 9834 that is configured to engage matching slot on the cartridge receiving location in the system. The cartridge may also have registration features (physical, optical, or the like) that allow the system to accurately engage components of the cartridge once the cartridge is recognized by the system. By way of non-limiting example, although components may be removed from the cartridge 9900 during assay processing, it is understood that some embodiments may permit the return of all components back to the cartridge for unified disposal. Optionally, in some embodiments of the system may have disposal areas, containers, chutes, or the like to discard those components of the cartridge not returned to the cartridge prior to ejecting the cartridge from the system. In some embodiments, these areas may be dedicated areas of the system for receiving waste.

Referring now to FIG. 33, another embodiment of cartridge 9901 will now be described. This one uses a reduced height cartridge 9901 wherein the sidewalls have a reduced vertical height. The provides for less material use for the disposable and brings the reaction vessels and/or reagents.

Referring now to FIG. 34, yet another feature of at least some cartridges will now be described. FIG. 34 shows a side view of a cartridge 9900 with a lid 9970, wherein the lid 9970 is removable upon insertion of the cartridge 9900 into the system and will re-engage the cover when the cartridge 9900 is removed from the system. Such features may be advantageous for increasing the security and protection of the components of the cartridge (e.g. to prevent tampering or inadvertent introduction of external matter). As seen in FIG. 34, there is an engagement feature 9972 such as but not limited to snap that engages a locking feature 9974 in the body of the cartridge 9900. A release mechanism 9976 such as but not limited to a pin can be inserted into an opening where it can contact the locking feature 9974 and move it to a release position. This allows one end of the lid 9970 to be disengaged automatically when the cartridge 9900 is inserted into system. Optionally, the release mechanism 9976 may have pins that actuate so that the release of the lid 9970 is based on when the system actuates to unlock the locking feature 9974. In one non-limiting example, a spring mechanism 9980 such as but not limited to a torsional spring can automatically lift open the lid 9970 as indicated by arrow 9982 after the locking mechanism 9974 is disengaged. When ejecting the cartridge 9900, the motion of the cartridge 9900 out of the device will cause the lid 9970 in the open position to engage a horizontally or otherwise mounted closure device 9984 (shown in phantom) that will move the lid 9970 to a closed position due the motion of the cartridge 9900 as indicated by arrow 9986 as it passes under the device 9984. In the present embodiment, the spring mechanism 9980 is engaged to the cartridge 9900 through openings 9978 (see FIG. 32).

FIG. 35 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the lid 9970 that engages over a cartridge 9900. This lid may be configured to retain all of the various components of the cartridge 9900 inside the cartridge when the cartridge is not in the system. The use of dual engagement features 9972 more securely holds the lid 9970 to the cartridge and makes it more difficult for a user to accidentally open the lid 9970 as it uses two or more points of engagement with the locking mechanism of the cartridge. As seen in FIG. AC, there is also a cut-out portion 9988 that allow for the sample containers to be placed into the cartridge 9900 before the cartridge 9900 is loaded into the system. In one non-limiting example, this can simplify use of the cartridge as this is only allows the sample container(s) to be placed in one location in the cartridge 9900, thus making the user interaction with the cartridge for loading sample much less variable or subject to error. The lid 9970 can also be opaque to prevent the user from being distracted by vessels and elements in the cartridge, instead focusing the user's attention to the only available open slot, which in the current embodiment is reserved for the sample container(s) which can only be inserted in a particular orientation due to the keyed shape of the opening.

Referring now to FIG. 36, it should be understood that the cartridge 9900 may also contain an absorbent pad assembly 10000 that is used to remove excess fluid from the various tips, vessels, or other elements. In one embodiment, the absorbent pad assembly 10000 has a multi-layer configuration comprising a spacer 10002, the absorbent pad 10004, and an adhesive layer 10006. Some embodiments may or may not have the spacer layer 10002 which may be made of material such as but not limited to acrylic or other similar material. The shape of the openings in the spacer 10002 is sized to allow for features such as but not limited to pipettes tip to enter spacer layer 10002 to clean the tip for excess fluid without contaminating the absorbent pad 10004 for adjacent openings. Optionally, it should be understood that the absorbent material 10004 may also be used alone or with adhesive or other material to cover certain reagent or other zones such that a tip would penetrate through the absorbent material 10004 in order to reach the reagent below. This would provide for removal of excess fluid on the outside of the tips on insertion and/or withdrawal of the tip, and may aid in the reduction of cross-reactivity. In one embodiment, this may be like a burst-able membrane of the absorbent material. Some embodiments may use tips that are linear and not conical in shape at the distal portion so that contact with the absorbent material is not lost due to variation in tip diameter, resulting in a less than thorough wiping of fluid from an outside portion of the tip.

In some embodiments, tips may be configured such that they do not retain excess fluid on the outside of the tip, and are not used with an absorbent pad.

Referring now to FIG. 37, it should be understood that the cartridge may also include various types of specialized tips or elements for specific functions. By way of non-limiting example as seen in FIG. 37, a sample preparation tip 10050 will now be described. In this embodiment of a sample preparation tip, the plunger 10052 of the tip 10050 interfaces with a single minitip nozzle at opening 10054; the pipette nozzle can be set to “pull” to produce a vacuum that allows the plunger to stay on the nozzle more securely. In the present embodiment, the barrel part 10056 of the sample preparation tip 10050 interfaces with two minitip nozzles of the pipette at cavities 10058 and 10060. In this manner, the pipette system uses multiple heads with nozzles thereon to both move the hardware of the tip 10050 and to aspirate using the plunger 10052.

In the present embodiment, the tip 10050 may include a resin portion 10070 that may be bound above and below by frits 10072 and 10074. Frit material may be compatible with sample purification chemistry and not leach any carryover inhibition into the downstream assay. Optionally, frit material should not bind to the biomolecule of interest, or must be chemically treated or surface passivated to prevent such. Optionally, frit material may be porous with an appropriate pore such that the resin remains within the confines of its cavity. Optionally, frit must be sized such that the interference fit between the barrel and the frit is enough to hold it in place against typical operating fluid pressures. By way of non-limiting example, the resin portion 10070 may be chosen such that it binds optimally with the biomolecule of choice, which can include but is not limited to bare and chemically modified versions of silica, zirconia, polystyrene or magnetic beads.

In one embodiment, the method for using the tip 100050 may involve the aspiration of lysed unpurified sample mixed with binding buffer through the resin 10070. In such an example, DNA or biomolecule of choice will bind to the resin 10070 in the appropriate salt conditions and remaining fluid is dispensed into waste. The method may involve aspiration of wash buffers to clean the bound sample and dispense fluid into waste vessel. This may be repeated multiple times as desired to obtain a clean sample. The method may further include aspiration and dispense of heated air in order to dry to resin to remove residual solvents and any carryover inhibition that may interfere with the downstream assay. Optionally, the tip 10050 may be used for aspiration of elution buffer to remove the bound molecule of interest, and may allow the elution buffer to completely saturate the resin before dispensing into an appropriate collection vessel.

In some embodiments, a pipette tip may contain a septa, such that there is a seal between the sample intake portion of a pipette tip, and the path of an actuation mechanism of the pipette (e.g. the piston block).

In some embodiments, a pipette nozzle and pipette tip may have threads, such that the pipette tip may be threaded onto the tip (e.g. by rotation). The nozzle may rotate to thread the tip onto the nozzle, or the tip may rotate. The tip may be “locked” in place on the nozzle upon threading the tip onto the pipette nozzle. The tip may be “unlocked” by rotating the nozzle or the tip in the opposite direction as used for loading the tip onto the nozzle.

Referring now to FIG. 38, in some embodiments, the cartridge 9800 contains at least one thermal device 9802 such as a chemical reaction pack for generating heat locally to enhance kinetics and/or for heating a mixture. The chemical reaction pack may contain chemicals such as sodium acetate or calcium chloride. This may be particularly desirable in situations where the cartridge 9800, prior to use, is stored in a refrigerated condition such as but not limited to the 0° C. to 8° C. range for days to weeks. Optionally, the temperature range during cold storage may be in the range of about −20° C. to 8° C., optionally −10° C. to 5° C., optionally −5° C. to 5° C., or optionally 2° C. to 8° C. In one non-limiting example, the thermal pack 9802 is in a refrigerated condition for at least one month. In an implementation, sodium acetate is used in the chemical in the chemical reaction thermal pack 9802. Sodium acetate trihydrate crystals melt at 58.4° C., dissolving in water. When they are heated to around 100° C., and subsequently allowed to cool, the aqueous solution becomes supersaturated. This solution is capable of cooling to room temperature without forming crystals. When the supersaturated solution is disrupted, crystals are formed. The bond-forming process of crystallization is exothermic. The latent heat of fusion is about 264-289 kJ/kg. The crystallization event can be triggered by clicking on a metal disc, creating a nucleation center which causes the solution to crystallize into solid sodium acetate trihydrate again. This can be triggered by the pipette in the system or other actuator in the device. Alternatively, a tip/needle on the pipette with sodium acetate crystal on its surface can puncture the sodium acetate foil seal. This will also trigger crystallization. It should be understood that other exothermic reactions can be used instead of sodium acetate and these other reactions are not excluded. One non-limiting example is to use magnesium/iron alloy in a porous matrix formed from polymeric powders with sodium chloride incorporated. The reaction is started by the addition of water. The water dissolves the sodium chloride into an electrolyte solution causing magnesium and iron to function as an anode and cathode, respectively. Optionally, an exothermic oxidation-reduction reaction between the magnesium-iron alloy and water can be used to produce magnesium hydroxide, hydrogen gas and heat. Optionally, a fan or other flow generating device on the system can be used to provide convective flow. The fan can be placed to blow air to the underside of the cartridge, along the sides, or optionally over the tops of the cartridge.

It should be understood that some cartridges 9800 may have more than one heater. As seen in FIGS. 38A and 38B, a second thermal device 9804 can also be a part of the cartridge 9800. In some embodiments, the heaters 9802 and 9804 are sized and located to thermally control temperature for certain areas of the cartridge 9800, particularly those vessels, wells, or other features that contain materials that are sensitive to temperature or provide more consistent or accurate results when they are used in certain temperature ranges. As seen in FIGS. 38A and 38B, the heaters 9802 and 9804 are positioned to thermally condition (heat or cool) those locations in the cartridge. In some embodiments, the heaters 9802 and 9804 are positioned to thermally condition particular reagents in a cartridge. It should also be understood that thermally conductive material such as but not limited to aluminum, copper, or the like, may also be incorporated into the cartridge to preferentially thermally condition certain areas of the cartridge. In one non-limiting example, the thermally conductive materials 9806 and 9808 can be made of a material different from that of the cartridge and be shaped to accommodate, contour, or otherwise be in contact with or near certain pipette tips, reagent wells, diluent wells, or the like. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive material may be used to condition those areas that are spaced apart from the thermal devices to more readily propagate thermal conditioning to other areas of the cartridge. Optionally, the thermally conductive material is located only at targeted areas over the thermal packs and designed to only thermally condition some but not other areas of the cartridge. Optionally, some embodiments may integrate thermally conductive materials such as but not limited to metal beads or other thermally conductive materials into the polymeric or other material used to form the cartridge. The cartridge can have isolated regions with temperature control (e.g. a region with high temperature for nucleic acid tests), without affecting other parts of the cartridge/device.

Referring now to FIG. 39, in another embodiment, the cartridge receiving location 9830 with rails 9832 is configured to receive a cartridge comprising a microfluidic cartridge 9810. This passive flow cartridge 9810 may have one more sample deposit locations 9812. By way of non-limiting example, this cartridge 9810 may be a microfluidic cartridge as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,007,999 and 7,888,125, both fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The passive flow cartridge 9810 may also have one or more rails that engage at least one slot 9832 of the cartridge receiving location. The cartridge receiving location 9830 may also have one more signal interface locations on the cartridge such as but not limited to electrical connectors or optical connectors so that electrodes, fiberoptics, or other elements in the cartridge can communicate with corresponding equipment in the system that can read signals from elements in the cartridge 9810.

It should be understood that a pipette may be used to load sample into the cartridge 9810. Optionally, the passive flow cartridge 9810 may also be integrated for use with the pipette to transport sample from certain ports in the cartridge 9810 to other ports on the sample cartridge, to other cartridges, or to other types of sample vessels. After the completion, the cartridge may be unloaded from the cartridge receiving location 9830 as indicated by arrow 9819.

Referring now to FIG. 40, in a still further embodiment, the cartridge receiving location 9830 with rails 9832 is configured to receive a cartridge comprising a microfluidic portion 9822. In this non-limiting example, the microfluidic portion 9822 is mounted on a larger cartridge 9824 that can have various reagent region(s) 9826 and sample vessel region(s) 9828. Some embodiments may also have a cartridge with sample vessel holding location 9938 that transports the sample fluid in gas tight containers until they are ready for analysis when loaded into the device. In one non-limiting example, the sample being aliquoted into microfluidic portion 9822 may be pre-treated by material in the sample vessel. In some embodiments, the microfluidic portion 9822 can be moved to location separate from the cartridge 9824 so that the processing on the microfluidic portion 9822 can occur simultaneously with other sample processing that may occur on the cartridge 9824. Optionally, the system may have the microfluidic portion 9822 moved so that other reagents, diluents, tips, or vessels that, in the present embodiment, are housed below the microfluidic portion 9822, become accessible for use. Optionally, the microfluidic portion 9822 may be returned to the cartridge 9824 after use. The entire cartridge 9824 may use a cover 9970 (not shown) to provide an enclosed unit for improved cartridge handling when not in use in the system.

Referring now to FIG. 41, another embodiment of a cartridge receiving location 9830 will now be described. This embodiment shows a plurality of detector locations 9841 on a cartridge 9842. A pipette 9844 can be used to transport sample to one or more the detector locations 9841. In one non-limiting example, movement of sample from one detector locations 9841 to another, or optionally, from a sample vessel to one or more of the detector locations 9841 can be by way of the pipette 9844.

In one non-limiting example, the measurement of the sample at the detector locations 9841 can be by way of a sensing electrode used in one of two manners. First, the change can be detected with respect to the exposed reference capacitor. In this embodiment, the reference electrode is exposed to the same solution as the sensing electrode. Optionally, a probe is designed to have similar electrical characteristics as the affinity probed but not to bind to a target in the solution in attached to the reference electrode. A change in integrated charge is measured as binding occurs on the sensing electrode (or affinity probe attached thereon) whose electrical characteristics change, but not on the reference electrode whose electrical characteristic remain the same. Second, two measurements of the same electrode, before and after the analyte binds, can be compared to establish the change in integrated charge resulting from binding. In this case, the same electrode at a previous time provides the reference. The device may operate in differential detection mode, in which both reference and sense electrode have attached affinity probes (of different affinity) to reject common mode noise contributed by the matrix or other noise sources.

In an alternative configuration, the reference electrode can be configured so that the sensing electrode takes direct capacitance measurements (non-differential). In this configuration, the reference electrode can be covered with a small dielectric substance such as epoxy or the device passivation or left exposed to air. The signal from the electrode can then be compared to an open circuit which establishes an absolute reference for measurement but may be more susceptible to noise. Such an embodiment uses the device in an absolute detection mode, in which the reference is an unexposed (or exposed to a fix environment such as air) fixed capacitor.

Referring now to FIGS. 42 to 45, it should be understood that in some embodiments the thermal device is not integrated into a part of a disposable such as cartridge 9800 but is instead a non-disposable that is part of the hardware of the system. The thermal device may be a thermal control unit. FIG. 42 shows one embodiment of a cartridge 9820 that is received into an assay station receiving location 9830 of the system. In some embodiments, an assay station receiving location may be a tray. In this non-limiting example, the assay station receiving location 9830 has slots 9832 that are shaped to receive rails 9834 on the cartridge 9820. The cartridge 9820 is inserted into the assay station receiving location 9830 until the cartridge 9820 engages a stop 9836. It should be understood that the regions in FIGS. 42-45 and optionally in other cartridges described herein, the region may contain a plurality of wells, tips or the like such as shown in the cartridges of U.S. Pat. No. 8,088,593 fully incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

Referring now to FIG. 43 which shows an underside view of the assay station receiving location 9830 which shows that there may be convective flow devices 9840 positioned on the assay station receiving location 9830 to facilitate flow in the underside of the cartridge 9820 when it is in the desired location on the assay station receiving location 9830. Although FIG. 43 shows the devices 9840 in only one location, it should be understood that devices 9840 may also be located at one or more other locations to access other areas of the cartridge 9820. Some embodiments may configure at least one of the convective devices 9840 to be pulling in air while at least one other convective device 9840 is pushing air out of the cartridge. There may be features such as but not limited to vanes, fins, rods, tubes, or the like to guide air flow in the underside or other areas of the cartridge 9820.

Referring now to FIG. 44, a cross-sectional view is shown of the cartridge 9820 on the assay station receiving location 9830 that is positioned over the convective flow device 9840. FIG. 44 further shows that there is thermal device 9850 that is a non-disposable that remains part of the system and is not disposed with the cartridge. Alternatively, some embodiments may integrate the thermal device 9850 into the cartridge, in which case the thermal device 9850 is part of the disposable. As seen in FIG. 44, the thermal device 9850 is at a first location spaced apart from the targeted materials 9852 to be thermally conditioned in the cartridge 9820. Referring still to FIG. 44, in some embodiments, the underside of the cartridge is substantially enclosed except for perhaps a hatch, door, or cover that allows for access to the underside of the cartridge 9820.

Referring now to FIG. 45, this illustration shows that the thermal device 9850 can be moved from the first location to a second location to more directly contact the areas and/or components of the cartridge 9820 to be thermally conditioned. As seen in FIG. 45, the thermal device 9850 can have shapes such as but not limited to cavities, openings, or the like that are contoured to engage surfaces of the areas and/or components of the cartridge 9820 to be thermally conditioned. It should be understood that the thermal device 9850 can use various thermal elements to heat or cool the portions that engage features of the cartridge or cartridge components. In one non-limiting example, the thermal device 9850 may use heating rods 9852 in the device 9850. These may cause thermal conditioning through electro-resistive heating or the like. Thermal transfer may occur from corresponding cavities in heater-block into each round-vessel bottom-stem through narrow air-gap. The convective flow device 9840 may assist in accelerating the thermal conditioning. Optionally, some embodiments may use the convective flow device 9840 to bring steady state condition to the cartridge sooner after an initial thermal conditioning phase. By way of non-limiting example, a pre-heated heater block may be the thermal device 9850 that engages with refrigerated (e.g. 4° C.) cartridge-round-vessels in the cartridge 9820, followed by rapid heating from thermal device 9850, followed by fan-cooling by convective flow device 9840, which then leads to controllable operating temperature in vessels within about 180 seconds.

After thermally conditioning is completed or to provide better access for the convective flow device 9840, the thermal device 9850 optionally returns to a location where it does not interfere with the insertion and/or removal of the cartridge 9820 from the assay station receiving location 9830, such as but not limited to residing in recess 9858.

In some embodiments, a both a disposable such as a cartridge and the hardware of the system contain a thermal device. In some embodiments, a cartridge is not thermally conditioned prior to or during use.

Optionally, the cartridge can also transform into different configurations based on external or internal stimuli. The stimuli can be sensed via sensors on the cartridge body, or be part of the cartridge. More commonplace sensors such as RFID tags can also be part of the cartridge. The cartridge can be equipped with biometric sensors if, for example, the sample collection and analysis are done in two separate locations (e.g. for patients in intensive care, samples are collected from the patient and then transferred to the device for analysis). This allows linking a patient sample to the cartridge, thereby preventing errors. The cartridge could have electric and/or fluidic interconnects to transfer signals and/or fluids between different vessels, tips, etc. on the cartridge. The cartridge can also comprise detectors and/or sensors.

Intelligent cartridge design with feedback, self learning, and sensing mechanisms enables a compact form factor with point of service utility, waste reduction, and higher efficiencies.

In one embodiment, a separate external robotics system may be available on site to assemble new cartridges in real time as they are needed. Alternatively, this capability could be part of the device or cartridge. Individual cartridge components for running assays may include but are not limited to sealed vessels with reagents, as well as tips and vessels for mixing and optical or non-optical measurements. All or some of these components can be added to a cartridge body in realtime by an automated robotic system. The desired components for each assay can be loaded individually onto a cartridge, or be pre-packaged into a mini-cartridge. This mini-cartridge can then be added to the larger cartridge which is inserted into the device. One or more assay units, reagent units, tips, vessels or other components can be added to a cartridge in real time. Cartridges may have no components pre-loaded onto them, or may have some components preloaded. Additional components can be added to a cartridge in real time based on a patient order. The position of the components added to a cartridge are predetermined and/or saved so that the device protocol can properly execute the assay steps in the device. The device may also configure the cartridge in real time if the assay cartridge components are available to the device. For example, tips and other cartridge components can be loaded into the device, and loaded into cartridges in real time given the patient order to the run at that time.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a device 200. A device may have a sample collection unit 210. The device may include one or more support structure 220, which may support one or more module 230 a, 230 b. The device may include a housing 240, which may support or contain the rest of the device. A device may also include a controller 250, display 260, power unit 270, and communication unit 280. The device may be capable of communicating with an external device 290 through the communication unit. The device may have a processor and/or memory that may be capable of effecting one or more steps or providing instructions for one or more steps to be performed by the device, and/or the processor and/or memory may be capable of storing one or more instructions.

Sample Collection

A device may comprise a sample collection unit. The sample collection unit may be configured to receive a sample from a subject. The sample collection unit may be configured to receive the sample directly from the subject or may be configured to receive a sample indirectly that has been collected from the subject.

One or more collection mechanisms may be used in the collection of a sample from a subject. A collection mechanism may use one or more principle in collecting the sample. For example, a sample collection mechanism may use gravity, capillary action, surface tension, aspiration, vacuum force, pressure differential, density differential, thermal differential, or any other mechanism in collecting the sample, or a combination thereof.

A bodily fluid may be drawn from a subject and provided to a device in a variety of ways, including but not limited to, fingerstick, lancing, injection, pumping, swabbing, pipetting, breathing, and/or any other technique described elsewhere herein. The bodily fluid may be provided using a bodily fluid collector. A bodily fluid collector may include a lancet, capillary, tube, pipette, syringe, needle, microneedle, pump, laser, porous membrane or any other collector described elsewhere herein. The bodily fluid collector may be integrated into a cartridge or onto the device, such as through the inclusion of a lancet and/or capillary on the cartridge body or vessel(s) or through a pipette that can aspirate a biological sample from the patient directly. The collector may be manipulated by a human or by automation, either directly or remotely. One means of accomplishing automation or remote human manipulation may be through the incorporation of a camera or other sensing device onto the collector itself or the device or cartridge or any component thereof and using the sensing device to guide the sample collection.

In one embodiment, a lancet punctures the skin of a subject and draws a sample using, for example, gravity, capillary action, aspiration, pressure differential and/or vacuum force. The lancet, or any other bodily fluid collector, may be part of the device, part of a cartridge of the device, part of a system, or a stand alone component. In another embodiment, a laser may be used to puncture the skin or sever a tissue sample from a patient. The laser may also be used to anesthetize the sample collection site. In another embodiment, a sensor may measure optically through the skin without invasively obtaining a sample. In some embodiments, a patch may comprise a plurality of microneedles, which may puncture the skin of a subject. Where needed, the lancet, the patch, or any other bodily fluid collector may be activated by a variety of mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, or any other known activation mechanism or any combination of such methods.

In some instances, a bodily fluid collector may be a piercing device that may be provided on a disposable or that may be disposable. The piercing device may be used to convey a sample or information about the sample to a non-disposable device that may process the sample. Alternatively, the disposable piercing device itself may process and/or analyze the sample.

In one example, a subject's finger (or other portion of the subject's body) may be punctured to yield a bodily fluid. The bodily fluid may be collected using a capillary tube, pipette, swab, drop, or any other mechanism known in the art. The capillary tube or pipette may be separate from the device and/or a cartridge of the device that may be inserted within or attached to a device, or may be a part of a device and/or cartridge. In another embodiment where no active mechanism (beyond the body) is required, a subject can simply provide a bodily fluid to the device and/or cartridge, as for example, could occur with a saliva sample or a finger-stick sample.

A bodily fluid may be drawn from a subject and provided to a device in a variety of ways, including but not limited to, fingerstick, lancing, injection, and/or pipetting. The bodily fluid may be collected using venous or non-venous methods. The bodily fluid may be provided using a bodily fluid collector. A bodily fluid collector may include a lancet, capillary, tube, pipette, syringe, venous draw, or any other collector described elsewhere herein. In one embodiment, a lancet punctures the skin and draws a sample using, for example, gravity, capillary action, aspiration, or vacuum force. The lancet may be part of the reader device, part of the cartridge, part of a system, or a stand alone component, which can be disposable. Where needed, the lancet may be activated by a variety of mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, or any other known activation mechanism or any combination of such methods. In one example, a subject's finger (or other portion of the subject's body) may be punctured to yield a bodily fluid. Examples of other portions of the subject's body may include, but is not limited to, the subject's hand, wrist, arm, torso, leg, foot, ear, or neck. The bodily fluid may be collected using a capillary tube, pipette, or any other mechanism known in the art. The capillary tube or pipette may be separate from the device and/or cartridge, or may be a part of a device and/or cartridge or vessel. In another embodiment where no active mechanism is required, a subject can simply provide a bodily fluid to the device and/or cartridge, as for example, can occur with a saliva sample. The collected fluid can be placed within the device. A bodily fluid collector may be attached to the device, removably attachable to the device, or may be provided separately from the device.

In some embodiments, a sample may be provided directly to the device, or may use an additional vessel or component that may be used as a conduit or means for providing a sample to a device. In one example, feces may be swabbed onto a cartridge or may be provided to a vessel on a cartridge. In another example a urine cup may snap out from a cartridge of a device, a device, or a peripheral to a device. Alternatively, a small vessel may be pushed out, snapped out, and/or twisted out of a cartridge of a device or a peripheral to a cartridge. Urine may be provided directly to the small vessel or from a urine cup. In another example, a nasal swab may be inserted into a cartridge. A cartridge may include buffers that may interact with the nasal swab. In some instances, a cartridge may include one or more tanks or reservoirs with one or more reagents, diluents, wash, buffers, or any other solutions or materials. A tissue sample may be placed on a slide that may be embedded within a cartridge to process the sample. In some instances, a tissue sample may be provided to a cartridge through any mechanism (e.g., opening, tray), and a slide may be automatically prepared within the cartridge. A fluid sample may be provided to a cartridge, and the cartridge may optionally be prepared as a slide within the cartridge. Any description of providing a sample to a cartridge or a vessel therein may also be applied to providing the sample directly to the device without requiring a cartridge. Any steps described herein as being performed by the cartridge may be performed by the device without requiring a cartridge.

A vessel for sample collection can be configured to obtain samples from a broad range of different biological, environmental, and any other matrices. The vessel can be configured to receive a sample directly from a body part such as a finger or an arm by touching the body part to the vessel. Samples may also be introduced through sample transfer devices which may optionally be designed for single-step processing in transferring a sample into a vessel or cartridge or into the device. Collection vessels may be designed and customized for each different sample matrix that is processed, such as urine, feces, or blood. For example, a sealed vessel may twist off of or pop out of a traditional urine cup so that it can be placed directly in a cartridge without the need for pipetting a sample. A vessel for sample collection can be configured to obtain blood from a fingerstick (or other puncture site). The collection vessel may be configured with one or more entry ports each connected to one or more segregated chambers. The collection vessel may be configured with only a single entry port connected to one of more segregated chambers. The collected sample may flow into the chambers via capillary action. Each segregated chamber may contain one or more reagents. Each segregated chamber may contain different reagents from the other chambers. Reagents in the chambers may be coated on the chamber walls. The reagents may be deposited in certain areas of the chambers, and/or in a graded fashion to control reagent mixing and distribution in the sample. Chambers may contain anticoagulants (for example, lithium-heparin, EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid), citrate). The chambers may be arranged such that mixing of the sample among the various chambers does not occur. The chambers may be arranged such that a defined amount of mixing occurs among the various chambers. Each chamber may be of the same or different size and/or volume. The chambers can be configured to fill at the same or different rates with the sample. The chambers may be connected to the entry port via an opening or port that may have a valve. Such a valve may be configured to permit fluid to flow in one or two directions. The valve may be passive or active. The sample collection vessel may be clear or opaque in certain regions. The sample collection vessel may be configured to have one or more opaque regions to allow automated and/or manual assessment of the sample collection process. The sample in each chamber may be extracted by the device by a sample handling system fitted with a tip or vessel to interface with the sample collection vessel. The sample in each chamber may be forced out of the chamber by a plunger. The samples may be extracted or expelled from each chamber individually or simultaneously.

A sample may be collected from an environment or any other source. In some instances, the sample is not collected from a subject. Examples of samples may include fluids (such as liquids, gas, gels), solid, or semi-solid materials that may be tested. In one scenario, a food product may be tested to determine whether the food is safe to eat. In another scenario, an environmental sample (e.g., water sample, soil sample, air sample) may be tested to determine whether there are any contaminants or toxins. Such samples can be collected using any mechanism, including those described elsewhere herein. Alternatively, such samples can be provided directly to the device, cartridge or to a vessel.

The collected fluid can be placed within the device. In some instances, the collected fluid is placed within a cartridge of the device. The collected fluid can be placed in any other region of the device. The device may be configured to receive the sample, whether it be directly from a subject, from a bodily fluid collector, or from any other mechanism. A sample collection unit of the device may be configured to receive the sample.

A bodily fluid collector may be attached to the device, removably attachable to the device, or may be provided separately from the device. In some instances, the bodily fluid collector is integral to the device. The bodily fluid collector can be attached to or removably attached to any portion of the device. The bodily fluid collector may be in fluid communication with, or brought into fluid communication with a sample collection unit of the device.

A cartridge may be inserted into the sample processing device or otherwise interfaced with the device. The cartridge may be attached to the device. The cartridge may be removed from the device. In one example, a sample may be provided to a sample collection unit of the cartridge. A cartridge may brought to a selected temperature before being inserted into the device (e.g. to 4 C, room temperature, 37 C, 40 C, 45 C, 50 C, 60 C, 70 C, 80 C, 90 C, etc.). The sample may or may not be provided to the sample collection unit via a bodily fluid collector. A bodily fluid collector may be attached to the cartridge, removably attachable to the cartridge, or may be provided separately from the cartridge. The bodily fluid collector may or may not be integral to the sample collection unit. The cartridge may then be inserted into the device. Alternatively, the sample may be provided directly to the device, which may or may not use the cartridge. The cartridge may comprise one or more reagents, which may be used in the operation of the device. The reagents may be self-contained within the cartridge. Reagents may be provided to a device through a cartridge without requiring reagents to be pumped into the device through tubes and/or tanks of buffer. Alternatively, one or more reagents may already be provided onboard the device. The cartridge may comprise a shell and insertable tubes, vessels, or tips. The cartridge may contain, for example, assay units, reagent units, processing units, or cuvettes (for example, cytometry cuvettes). Vessels or tips may be used to store reagents required to run tests. Some vessels or tips may be preloaded onto cartridges. Other vessels or tips may be stored within the device, possibly in a cooled environment as required. At the time of testing, the device can assemble the on-board stored vessels or tips with a particular cartridge as needed by use of a robotic system within the device.

In some embodiments, a cartridge contains microfluidics channels. Assays may be performed or detected within microfluidics channels of a cartridge. Microfluidics channels of a cartridge have openings to interface with, for example, tip, such that samples may be loaded into or removed from the channel. In some embodiments, samples and reagents may be mixed in a vessel, and then transferred to a microfluidics channel of a cartridge. Alternatively, samples and reagents may be mixed within a microfluidics channel of a cartridge.

In some embodiments, a cartridge contains chips for electronic microlfluidics applications. Small volumes of liquids may be applied to such chips, and assay may be performed on the chips. Liquids may be, for example, spotted or pipetted onto the chips, and moved, for example by charge.

In some embodiments, a cartridge contains one or more assay units, reagent units, or other vessels containing, for example, antibodies, nucleic acid probes, buffers, chromogens, chemiluminescent compounds, fluorescent compounds, washing solutions, dyes, enzymes, salts, or nucleotides. In some embodiments, a vessel may contain multiple different reagents in the vessel (e.g. a buffer, a salt, and an enzyme in the same vessel). The combination of multiple reagents in a single vessel may be a reagent mixture. A reagent mixture may be, for example, in liquid, gel, or lyophilized form. In some embodiments, one or more or all of the vessels in a cartridge are sealed (e.g. a sealed assay unit, reagent unit, etc.). The sealed vessels may be individually sealed, they may all share the same seal (e.g. a cartridge-wide seal), or groups of vessels may be sealed together. Sealing materials may be, for example, a metal foil or a synthetic material (e.g. polypropylene). The sealing material may be configured to resist corrosion or degradation. In some embodiments, a vessel may have a septum, such that the contents of the vessel are not exposed to air without puncturing or transversing the septum.

In some embodiments, a cartridge provided herein may contain all the reagents necessary to perform one or more assays on-board the cartridge. A cartridge may contain all of the reagents on-board necessary to perform 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, or more assays. The assays may be any assay or assay type disclosed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, a cartridge provided herein may contain within the cartridge all the reagents necessary to perform all of the assays to be performed on a biological sample from a subject. In some embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, or more assays are to be performed in a biological sample from a from a subject. A cartridge may also be configured to receive or store a biological sample from a subject, such that all of the reagents and biological material necessary to perform one or more assays may be provided to a device through the insertion of a cartridge containing the sample and reagents into the device. After introduction of a sample into a device through a cartridge, a sample may be, for example, stored in the device for archiving or later analysis, or cultured in the device. In some embodiments, all of the reagents in a cartridge are discretely packaged and/or sealed from interfacing with hardware of a sample processing device.

In some embodiments, provided herein is a system containing a sample processing device and a cartridge. The system, sample processing device, and cartridge may have any of the features described elsewhere herein. The cartridge may be part of the sample processing device. A cartridge may be positioned in a device or module adjacent to a sensor (e.g. an optical sensor) or detection station, such that reactions within the cartridge (e.g. in microfluidics channels or vessels in the cartridge) may be measured.

In some embodiments, in systems containing a sample processing device and cartridge, the device stores some or all reagents for performing assays within the device. For example, the device may store common reagents such as water, selected buffers, and detection-related compounds (e.g. chemiluminescent molecules and chromogens) within the device. The device may direct reagents for assays to the cartridge as needed. A device which stores reagents may have tubing to transport reagents from reagent storage locations to the cartridge. Storage of reagents within the device may, in some situations, increase the speed of reactions or decrease reagent waste.

In other embodiments, in systems containing a sample processing device and cartridge, the device does not store any reagents for performing assays within the device. Similarly, in some embodiments, the device does not store any wash solutions or other readily disposable liquids in the device. In such systems, a cartridge containing all reagents on-board necessary to perform one or more assays may be provided to the device. In some embodiments, multiple reagents for performing a single assay may be provided in a single fluidically isolated vessel (e.g. as a reaction mixture). The device may use the reagents provided in the cartridge to perform one or more assays with a biological sample. The biological sample may also be included in the cartridge, or it may be separately provided to the device. In addition, in some embodiments, the device may return used reagents to the cartridge, so that all reagents used for performing one or more assays both enter and leave the device through the cartridge.

A sample processing device which does not store reagents within the device (and instead, which receives reagents through the insertion of a cartridge or other structure into the device) may have advantages over a sample processing device which stores reagents or other disposables within or in fluid communication with the device. For example, a sample processing device which stores reagents within the device may require complicated structures for storing and transporting the reagents (e.g. storage areas and tubing). These structures may increase the size of the device, require regular maintenance, increase the total amount of reagents and samples needed to perform assays, and introduce variables into assays which may be a source of errors (for example, tubing may lose its shape over time and not deliver accurate volumes). In contrast, a sample processing device which does not store reagents within or in fluid communication with the device may be smaller, may require less maintenance, may use less reagents or sample to perform assays, and may have higher accuracy, higher precision, and lower coefficient of variation than a device which stores reagents. In another example, typically, devices which store reagents in the device can only contain a limited number of reagents, and thus, can only perform a limited number of different assays. In addition, such a device may only be configured to support assays with a limited number of sample types (e.g. only blood or only urine). Moreover, even if one or more of the reagents in the device could be changed to support a different assay, changing of the reagent may be a difficult and time-consuming processing (for example, tubing containing a previous reagent may need to be washed to prevent reagent carryover). In contrast, a sample processing device which does not store reagents within or in fluid communication with the device may be capable of performing a higher number of different assays and of performing different assays more rapidly, easily, and accurately than a device which stores reagents, for example due to reduced or eliminated reagent cross-reactivity or reduced or eliminated human intervention or calibration).

A bodily fluid collector or any other collection mechanism can be disposable. For example, a bodily fluid collector can be used once and disposed. A bodily fluid collector can have one or more disposable components. Alternatively, a bodily fluid collector can be reusable. The bodily fluid collector can be reused any number of times. In some instances, the bodily fluid collector can include both reusable and disposable components. To reduce the environmental impact of disposal, the materials of the cartridge or other bodily fluid collector may be manufactured of a compostable or other “green” material.

Any component that is inserted into the system or device can be identified based on identification tags or markings and/or other communication means. Based on the identification of such components, the system can ensure that said components are suitable for use (e.g., not passed their expiration date). The system may cross-reference with an on-board and/or remote databases containing data and information concerning said components, or a related a protocol or a patient ID.

Components inserted into the system or device may include on-boards sensors. Such sensors may respond to temperature, humidity, light, pressure, vibration, acceleration, and other environmental factors. Such sensors may be sensitive to absolute levels, durations of exposure levels, cumulative exposure levels, and other combinations of factors. The system or device can read such sensors and/or communicate with such sensors when the components are inserted into the system or device or interface with the user interface to determine how and if the said component(s) is suitable for use in the system/device based on a set of rules.

A sample collection unit and/or any other portion of the device may be capable of receiving a single type of sample, or multiple types of samples. For example, the sample collection unit may be capable of receiving two different types of bodily fluids (e.g., blood, tears). In another example, the sample collection unit may be capable of receiving two different types of biological samples (e.g., urine sample, stool sample). Multiple types of samples may or may not be fluids, solids, and/or semi-solids. For example, the sample collection unit may be capable of accepting one or more of, two or more of, or three or more of a bodily fluid, secretion and/or tissue sample.

A device may be capable of receiving a single type of sample or multiple types of samples. The device may be capable of processing the single type of sample or multiple types of samples. In some instances, a single bodily fluid collector may be used. Alternatively, multiple and/or different bodily fluid collectors may be used.

Sample

A sample may be received by the device. Examples of samples may include various fluid samples. In some instances, the sample may be a bodily fluid sample from the subject. The sample may be an aqueous or gaseous sample. The sample may be a gel. The sample may include one or more fluid component. In some instances, solid or semi-solid samples may be provided. The sample may include tissue collected from the subject. The sample may include a bodily fluid, secretion, and/or tissue of a subject. The sample may be a biological sample. The biological sample may be a bodily fluid, a secretion, and/or a tissue sample. Examples of biological samples may include but are not limited to, blood, serum, saliva, urine, gastric and digestive fluid, tears, stool, semen, vaginal fluid, interstitial fluids derived from tumorous tissue, ocular fluids, sweat, mucus, earwax, oil, glandular secretions, breath, spinal fluid, hair, fingernails, skin cells, plasma, nasal swab or nasopharyngeal wash, spinal fluid, cerebral spinal fluid, tissue, throat swab, biopsy, placental fluid, amniotic fluid, cord blood, emphatic fluids, cavity fluids, sputum, pus, micropiota, meconium, breast milk and/or other excretions. The sample may be provided from a human or animal. The sample may be provided from a mammal, vertebrate, such as murines, simians, humans, farm animals, sport animals, or pets. The sample may be collected from a living or dead subject.

The sample may be collected fresh from a subject or may have undergone some form of pre-processing, storage, or transport. The sample may be provided to a device from a subject without undergoing intervention or much time. The subject may contact the device, cartridge, and/or vessel to provide the sample.

A subject may provide a sample, and/or the sample may be collected from a subject. A subject may be a human or animal. The subject may be a mammal, vertebrate, such as murines, simians, humans, farm animals, sport animals, or pets. The subject may be living or dead. The subject may be a patient, clinical subject, or pre-clinical subject. A subject may be undergoing diagnosis, treatment, and/or disease management or lifestyle or preventative care. The subject may or may not be under the care of a health care professional.

A sample may be collected from the subject by puncturing the skin of the subject, or without puncturing the skin of the subject. A sample may be collected through an orifice of the subject. A tissue sample may be collected from the subject, whether it be an internal or external tissue sample. The sample may be collected from any portion of the subject including, but not limited to, the subject's finger, hand, arm, shoulder, torso, abdomen, leg, foot, neck, ear, or head.

In some embodiments, the sample may be an environmental sample. Examples of environmental samples may include air samples, water samples, soil samples, or plant samples.

Additional samples may include food products, beverages, manufacturing materials, textiles, chemicals, therapies, or any other samples.

One type of sample may be accepted and/or processed by the device. Alternatively, multiple types of samples may be accepted and/or processed by the device. For example, the device may be capable of accepting one or more, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, seven or more, eight or more, nine or more, ten or more, twelve or more, fifteen or more, twenty or more, thirty or more, fifty or more, or one hundred or more types of samples. The device may be capable of accepting and/or processing any of these numbers of sample types simultaneously and/or at different times from different or the same matrices. For example, the device may be capable of preparing, assaying and/or detecting one or multiple types of samples.

Any volume of sample may be provided from the subject or from another source. Examples of volumes may include, but are not limited to, about 10 mL or less, 5 mL or less, 3 mL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 μL or less, 300 μL or less, 250 μL or less, 200 μL or less, 170 μL or less, 150 μL or less, 125 μL or less, 100 μL or less, 75 μL or less, 50 μL or less, 25 μL or less, 20 μL or less, 15 μL or less, 10 μL or less, 5 μL or less, 3 μL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 nL or less, 250 nL or less, 100 nL or less, 50 nL or less, 20 nL or less, 10 nL or less, 5 nL or less, 1 nL or less, 500 pL or less, 100 pL or less, 50 pL or less, or 1 pL or less. The amount of sample may be about a drop of a sample. The amount of sample may be about 1-5 drops of sample, 1-3 drops of sample, 1-2 drops of sample, or less than a drop of sample. The amount of sample may be the amount collected from a pricked finger or fingerstick. Any volume, including those described herein, may be provided to the device.

Sample to Device

A sample collection unit may be integral to the device. The sample collection unit may be separate from the device. In some embodiments, the sample collection unit may be removable and/or insertable from the device. The sample collection unit may or may not be provided in a cartridge. A cartridge may or may not be removable and/or insertable from the device.

A sample collection unit may be configured to receive a sample. The sample collection unit may be capable of containing and/or confining the sample. The sample collection unit may be capable of conveying the sample to another portion of the device.

The sample collection unit may be in fluid communication with one or more module of a device. In some instances, the sample collection unit may be permanent fluid communication with one or more module of the device. Alternatively, the sample collection unit may be brought into and/or out of fluid communication with a module. The sample collection unit may or may not be selectively fluidically isolated from one or more module. In some instances, the sample collection unit may be in fluid communication with each of the modules of the device. The sample collection unit may be in permanent fluid communication with each of the modules, or may be brought into and/or out of fluid communication with each module.

A sample collection unit may be selectively brought into and/or out of fluid communication with one or more modules. The fluid communication may be controlled in accordance with one or more protocol or set of instructions. A sample collection unit may be brought into fluid communication with a first module and out of fluid communication with a second module, and vice versa.

Similarly, the sample collection unit may be in fluid communication with one or more component of a device. In some instances, the sample collection unit may be in permanent fluid communication with one or more component of the device. Alternatively, the sample collection unit may be brought into and/or out of fluid communication with a device component. The sample collection unit may or may not be selectively fluidically isolated from one or more component. In some instances, the sample collection unit may be in fluid communication with each of the components of the device. The sample collection unit may be in permanent fluid communication with each of the components, or may be brought into and/or out of fluid communication with each component.

One or more mechanisms may be provided for transferring a sample from the sample collection unit to a test site. In some embodiments, flow-through mechanisms may be used. For example, a channel or conduit may connect a sample collection unit with a test site of a module. The channel or conduit may or may not have one or more valves or mechanisms that may selectively permit or obstruct the flow of fluid.

Another mechanism that may be used to transfer a sample from a sample collection unit to a test site may use one or more fluidically isolated component. For example, a sample collection unit may provide the sample to one or more tip or vessel that may be movable within the device. The one or more tip or vessel may be transferred to one or more module. In some embodiments, the one or more tip or vessel may be shuttled to one or more module via a robotic arm or other component of the device. In some embodiments, the tip or vessel may be received at a module. In some embodiments, a fluid handling mechanism at the module may handle the tip or vessel. For example, a pipette at a module may pick up and/or aspirate a sample provided to the module.

A device may be configured to accept a single sample, or may be configured to accept multiple samples. In some instances, the multiple samples may or may not be multiple types of samples. For example, in some instances a single device may handle a single sample at a time. For example, a device may receive a single sample, and may perform one or more sample processing step, such as a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step with the sample. The device may complete processing or analyzing a sample, before accepting a new sample.

In another example, a device may be capable of handling multiple samples simultaneously. In one example, the device may receive multiple samples simultaneously. The multiple samples may or may not be multiple types of samples. Alternatively, the device may receive samples in sequence. Samples may be provided to the device one after another, or may be provided to device after any amount of time has passed. A device may be capable of beginning sample processing on a first sample, receiving a second sample during said sample processing, and process the second sample in parallel with the first sample. The first and second sample may or may not be the same type of sample. The device may be able to parallel process any number of samples, including but not limited to more than and/or equal to about one sample, two samples, three samples, four samples, five samples, six samples, seven samples, eight samples, nine samples, ten samples, eleven samples, twelve samples, thirteen samples, fourteen samples, fifteen samples, sixteen samples, seventeen samples, eighteen samples, nineteen samples, twenty samples, twenty-five samples, thirty samples, forty samples, fifty samples, seventy samples, one hundred samples.

In some embodiments, a device may comprise one, two or more modules that may be capable of processing one, two or more samples in parallel. The number of samples that can be processed in parallel may be determined by the number of available modules and/or components in the device.

When a plurality of samples is being processed simultaneously, the samples may begin and/or end processing at any time. The samples need not begin and/or end processing at the same time. A first sample may have completed processing while a second sample is still being processed. The second sample may begin processing after the first sample has begun processing. As samples have completed processing, additional samples may be added to the device. In some instances, the device may be capable of running continuously with samples being added to the device as various samples have completed processing.

The multiple samples may be provided simultaneously. The multiple samples may or may not be the same type of sample. For example, multiple sample collection units may be provided to a device. For example, one, two or more lancets may be provided on a device or may be brought into fluid communication with a sample collection unit of a device. The multiple sample collection units may receive samples simultaneously or at different times. Multiple of any of the sample collection mechanisms described herein may be used. The same type of sample collection mechanisms, or different types of sample collection mechanisms may be used.

The multiple samples may be provided in sequence. In some instances, multiple sample collection units, or single sample collection units may be used. Any combination of sample collection mechanisms described herein may be used. A device may accept one sample at a time, two samples at a time, or more. Samples may be provided to the device after any amount of time has elapsed.

Modules

Devices may comprise one or more module. A module may be capable of performing one or more, two or more, or all three of a sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. FIG. 3 shows an example of a module 300. A module may comprise one or more, two or more, or three or more of a sample preparation station 310, and/or an assay station 320, and/or a detection station 330. In some embodiments, multiple of a sample preparation station, assay station, and/or detection station are provided. A module may also include a fluid handling system 340.

A module may include one or more sample preparation station. A sample preparation station may include one or more component configured for chemical processing and/or physical processing. Examples of such sample preparation processes may include dilution, concentration/enrichment, separation, sorting, filtering, lysing, chromatography, incubating, or any other sample preparation step. A sample preparation station may include one or more sample preparation components, such as a separation system (including, but not limited to, a centrifuge), magnets (or other magnetic field-inducing devices) for magnetic separation, a filter, a heater, or diluents.

A sample preparation station may be insertable into or removable from a system, device, or module. A sample preparation station may comprise a cartridge. In some embodiments, any description of a cartridge provided herein may apply to a sample preparation station, and vice-versa.

One or more assay station may be provided to a module. The assay station may include one or more component configured to perform one or more of the following assays or steps: immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and/or other types of assays or combinations thereof. The assay station may be configured for proteinaceous assay, including immunoassay and Enzymatic assay or any other assay that involves interaction with a proteinaceous component. Topographic assays in some cases include morphological assays. Examples of other components that may be included in an assay station or a module are, without limitation, one or more of the following: temperature control unit, heater, thermal block, cytometer, electromagnetic energy source (e.g., x-ray, light source), assay units, reagent units, and/or supports. In some embodiments, a module includes one or more assay stations capable of performing nucleic acid assay and proteinaceous assay (including immunoassay and enzymatic assay). In some embodiments, a module includes one or more assay stations capable of performing fluorescent assay and cytometry.

An assay station may be insertable into or removable from a system, device, or module. An assay station may comprise a cartridge. In some embodiments, any description of an assay/reagent unit support or cartridge provided herein may apply to an assay station, and vice-versa.

In some embodiments, a system, device, or module provided herein may have an assay station/cartridge receiving location. The assay station receiving location may be configured to receive a removable or insertable assay station. The assay station receiving location may be situated in the module, device, or system such that an assay station positioned in the receiving location (and assay units therein) may be accessible by a sample handling system of the module, device, or system. The assay station receiving location may be configured to position an assay station at a precise location within the receiving location, such that a sample handling system may accurately access components of the assay station. An assay station receiving location may be a tray. The tray may be movable, and may have multiple positions, for example, a first position where the tray extends outside of the housing of the device, and a second position wherein the tray is inside of the housing of the device. In some embodiments, an assay station may be locked in place in an assay station receiving location. In some embodiments, the assay station receiving location may contain or be operatively coupled to a thermal control unit to regulate the temperature of the assay station. In some embodiments, the assay station receiving location may contain or be operatively coupled to a detector (e.g. bar code detector, RFID detector) for an identifier (e.g. bar code, RFID tag) which may be on an assay station. The identifier detector may be in communication with a controller or other component of the device, such that the identifier detector can transmit information regarding the identity of an assay station/cartridge inserted into the device to the device or system controller.

The assay station may or may not be located separately from the preparation station. In some instances, an assay station may be integrated within the preparation station. Alternatively, they may be distinct stations, and a sample or other substance may be transmitted from one station to another.

Assay units may be provided, and may have one or more characteristics as described further elsewhere herein. Assay units may be capable of accepting and/or confining a sample. The assay units may be fluidically isolated from or hydraulically independent of one another. In some embodiments, assay units may have a tip format. An assay tip may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. The assay tip may have a first open end and a second open end. In some embodiments, assay units may be provided as an array. Assay units may be movable. In some embodiments, individual assay units may be movable relative to one another and/or other components of the device. In some instances, one or a plurality of assay units may be moved simultaneously. In some embodiments, an assay unit may have a reagent or other reactant coated on a surface. In some embodiments, a succession of reagents may be coated or deposited on a surface, such as a tip surface, and the succession of reagents can be used for sequential reactions. Alternatively, assay units may contain beads or other surfaces with reagents or other reactants coated thereon or absorbed, adsorbed or adhered therein. In another example, assay units may contain beads or other surfaces coated with or formed of reagents or other reactants that may dissolve. In some embodiments, assay units may be cuvettes. In some instances, cuvettes may be configured for cytometry, may include microscopy cuvettes.

Reagent units may be provided and may have one or more characteristics as described further elsewhere herein. Reagent units may be capable of accepting and/or confining a reagent or a sample. Reagent units may be fluidically isolated from or hydraulically independent of one another. In some embodiments, reagent units may have a vessel format. A reagent vessel may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. The reagent unit may have an open end and a closed end. In some embodiments, the reagent units may be provided as an array. Reagent units may be movable. In some embodiments, individual reagent units may be movable relative to one another and/or other components of the device. In some instances, one or a plurality of reagent units may be moved simultaneously. A reagent unit can be configured to accept one or more assay unit. The reagent unit may have an interior region into which an assay unit can be at least partially inserted.

A support may be provided for the assay units and/or reagent units. In some embodiments, the support may have an assay station format, a cartridge format or a microcard format. In some embodiments a support may have a patch format or may be integrated into a patch or an implantable sensing an analytical unit. One or more assay/reagent unit support may be provided within a module. The support may be shaped to hold one or more assay units and/or reagent units. The support may keep the assay units and/or reagent units aligned in a vertical orientation. The support may permit assay units and/or reagent units to be moved or movable. Assay units and/or reagent units may be removed from and/or placed on a support. The device and/or system may incorporate one or more characteristics, components, features, or steps provided in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0088336, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

A module may include one or more detection stations. A detection station may include one or more sensors that may detect visual/optical signals, infra-red signals, heat/temperature signals, ultraviolet signals, any signal along an electromagnetic spectra, electric signals, chemical signals, audio signals, pressure signals, motion signals, or any other type of detectable signals. The sensors provided herein may or may not include any of the other sensors described elsewhere herein. The detection station may be located separately from the sample preparation and/or assay station. Alternatively, the detection station may be located in an integrated manner with the sample preparation and/or assay station. A detection station may contain one or more detection units, including any detection unit disclosed elsewhere herein. A detection station may contain, for example, a spectrophotometer, a PMT, a photodiode, a camera, an imaging device, a CCD or CMOS optical sensor, or a non-optical sensor. In some embodiments, a detection station may contain a light source and optical sensor. In some embodiments, a detection station may contain a microscope objective and an imaging device.

In some embodiments, a sample may be provided to one or more sample preparation station before being provided to an assay station. In some instances, a sample may be provided to a sample preparation after being provided to an assay station. A sample may undergo detection before, during, or after it is provided to a sample preparation station and/or assay station.

A fluid handling system may be provided to a module. The fluid handling system may permit the movement of a sample, reagent, or a fluid. The fluid handling system may permit the dispensing and/or aspiration of a fluid. The fluid handling system may pick up a desired fluid from a selected location and/or may dispense a fluid at a selected location. The fluid handling system may permit the mixing and/or reaction of two or more fluids. In some cases, a fluid handling mechanism may be a pipette. Examples of pipettes or fluid handling mechanisms are provided in greater detail elsewhere herein.

Any description herein of a fluid handling system may also apply to other sample handling systems, and vice versa. For example, a sample handling system may transport any type of sample, including but not limited to bodily fluids, secretions, or tissue samples. A sample handling system may be capable of handling fluids, solids, or semi-solids. A sample handling system may be capable of accepting, depositing, and/or moving a sample, and/or any other substance within the device may be useful and/or necessary for sample processing within the device. A sample handling system may be capable of accepting, depositing, and/or moving a container (e.g., assay unit, reagent unit) that may contain a sample, and/or any other substance within the device.

A fluid handling system may include a tip. For example, a pipette tip may be removably connected to a pipette. The tip may interface with a pipette nozzle. Examples of tip/nozzle interfaces are provided in greater detail elsewhere herein.

Another example of a fluid handling system may use flow-through designs. For example, a fluid handling system may incorporate one or more channels and/or conduits through which a fluid may flow. The channel or conduit may comprise one or more valves that may selectively stop and/or permit the flow of fluid.

A fluid handling system may have one or more portion that may result in fluid isolation. For example, a fluid handling system may use a pipette tip that may be fluidically isolated from other components of the device. The fluidically isolated portions may be movable. In some embodiments, the fluid handling system tips may be assay tips as described elsewhere herein.

A module may have a housing and/or support structure. In some embodiments, a module may have a support structure upon which one or more component of the module may rest. The support structure may support the weight of one or more component of the module. The components may be provided above the support structure, on the side of the support structure, and/or under the support structure. The support structure may be a substrate which may connect and/or support various components of the module. The support structure may support one or more sample preparation station, assay station, and/or detection station of the module. A module may be self-contained. The modules may be moved together. The various components of the module may be capable of being moved together. The various components of the module may be connected to one another. The components of the module may share a common support.

A module may be enclosed or open. A housing of the module may enclose the module therein. The housing may completely enclose the module or may partially enclose the module. The housing may form an air-tight enclosure around the module. Alternatively, the housing need not be air-tight. The housing may enable the temperature, humidity, pressure, or other characteristics within the module or component(s) of the module to be controlled.

Electrical connections may be provided for a module. A module may be electrically connected to the rest of the device. A plurality of modules may or may not be electrically connected to one another. A module may be brought into electrical connection with a device when a module is inserted/attached to the device. The device may provide power (or electricity) to the module. A module may be disconnected from the electrical source when removed from the device. In one instance, when a module is inserted into the device, the module makes an electrical connection with the rest of the device. For example, the module may plug into the support of a device. In some instances, the support (e.g., housing) of the device may provide electricity and/or power to the module.

A module may also be capable of forming fluidic connections with the rest of the device. In one example, a module may be fluidically connected to the rest of the device. Alternatively, the module may be brought into fluidic communication with the rest of the device via, e.g., a fluid handling system disclosed herein. The module may be brought into fluidic communication when the module is inserted/attached to the device, or may be selectively brought into fluidic communication anytime after the module is inserted/attached to the device. A module may be disconnected from fluidic communication with the device when the module is removed from the device and/or selectively while the module is attached to the device. In one example, a module may be in or may be brought into fluidic communication with a sample collection unit of the device. In another example, a module may be in or may be brought into fluidic communication with other modules of the device.

A module may have any size or shape, including those described elsewhere herein. A module may have a size that is equal to, or smaller than the device. The device module may enclose a total volume of less than or equal to about 4 m³, 3 m³, 2.5 m³, 2 m³, 1.5 m³, 1 m³, 0.75 m³, 0.5 m³, 0.3 m³, 0.2 m³, 0.1 m³, 0.08 m³, 0.05 m³, 0.03 m³, 0.01 m³, 0.005 m³, 0.001 m³, 500 cm³, 100 cm³, 50 cm³, 10 cm³, 5 cm³, 1 cm³, 0.5 cm³, 0.1 cm³, 0.05 cm³, 0.01 cm³, 0.005 cm³, or 0.001 cm³. The module may have any of the volumes described elsewhere herein.

The module and/or module housing may have a footprint covering a lateral area of the device. In some embodiments, the device footprint may be less than or equal to about 4 m², 3 m², 2.5 m², 2 m², 1.5 m², 1 m², 0.75 m², 0.5 m², 0.3 m², 0.2 m², 0.1 m², 0.08 m², 0.05 m², 0.03 m², 100 cm², 80 cm², 70 cm², 60 cm², 50 cm², 40 cm², 30 cm², 20 cm², 15 cm², 10 cm², 7 cm², 5 cm², 1 cm², 0.5 cm², 0.1 cm², 0.05 cm², 0.01 cm², 0.005 cm², or 0.001 cm².

The module and/or module housing may have a lateral dimension (e.g., width, length, or diameter) or a height less than or equal to about 4 m, 3 m, 2.5 m, 2 m, 1.5 m, 1.2 m, 1 m, 80 cm, 70 cm, 60 cm, 50 cm, 40 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 15 cm, 12 cm, 10 cm, 8 cm, 5 cm, 3 cm, 1 cm, 0.5 cm, 0.1 cm, 0.05 cm, 0.01 cm, 0.005 cm, or 0.001 cm. The lateral dimensions and/or height may vary from one another. Alternatively, they may be the same. In some instances, the module may be tall and thin, or may be short and squat. The height to lateral dimension ratio may be greater than or equal to 100:1, 50:1, 30:1, 20:1, 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:20, 1:30, 1:50, or 1:100. The module and/or the module housing may proportionally be tall and thin.

The module and/or module housing may have any shape. In some embodiments, the module may have a lateral cross-sectional shape of a rectangle or square. In other embodiments, the module may have a lateral cross-sectional shape of a circle, ellipse, triangle, trapezoid, parallelogram, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, or any other shape. The module may have a vertical cross-sectional shape of a circle, ellipse, triangle, rectangle, square, trapezoid, parallelogram, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, or any other shape. The module may or may not have a box-like shape.

Any number of modules may be provided for a device. A device may be configured to accept a fixed number of modules. Alternatively, the device may be configured to accept a variable number of modules. In some embodiments, each module for the device may have the same components and/or configurations. Alternatively, different modules for the device may have varying components and/or configurations. In some instances, the different modules may have the same housing and/or support structure formats. In another example, the different modules may still have the same overall dimensions. Alternatively, they may have varying dimensions.

In some instances a device may have a single module. The single module may be configured to accept a single sample at once, or may be capable of accepting a plurality of samples simultaneously or in sequence. The single module may be capable of performing one or more sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step. The single module may or may not be swapped out to provide different functionality.

Further details and descriptions of modules and module components are described further elsewhere herein. Any such embodiments of such modules may be provided in combination with others or alone.

Racks

In an aspect of the invention, a system having a plurality of modules is provided. The system is configured to assay a biological sample, such as a fluid and/or tissue sample from a subject.

In some embodiments, the system comprises a plurality of modules mounted on a support structure. In an embodiment, the support structure is a rack having a plurality of mounting stations, an individual mounting station of the plurality of mounting stations for supporting a module.

In an embodiment, the rack comprises a controller communicatively coupled to the plurality of modules. In some situations, the controller is communicatively coupled to a fluid handling system, as described below. The controller is configured to control the operation of the modules to prepare and/or process a sample, such as to assay a sample via one or more of the techniques described herein.

An individual module of the plurality of modules comprises a sample preparation station, assay station, and/or detection station. The system is configured to perform (a) multiple sample preparation procedures selected from the group consisting of sample processing, centrifugation, separation, physical separation and chemical separation, and (b) at least one type of assay selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and/or other types of assays or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, separation includes magnetic separation, such as, e.g., separation with the aid of a magnetic field.

In an embodiment, the support structure is a rack-type structure for removably holding or securing an individual module of the plurality of modules. The rack-type structure includes a plurality of bays configured to accept and removably secure a module. In one example, as shown in FIG. 4, a rack 400 may have one or more modules 410 a, 410 b, 410 c, 410 d, 410 e, 410 f. The modules may have a vertical arrangement where they are positioned over one another. For example, six modules may be stacked on top of one another. The modules may have a horizontal arrangement where they are adjacent to one another. In another example, the modules may form an array. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a rack 500 having a plurality of modules 510 that form an array. For example, the modules may form a vertical array that is M modules high and/or N modules wide, wherein M, N are positive whole numbers. In other embodiments, a rack may support an array of modules, where a horizontal array of modules is formed. For example, the modules may form a horizontal array that is N modules wide and/or P modules long, wherein N and P are positive whole numbers. In another example, a three-dimensional array of modules may be supported by a rack, where the modules form a block that is M modules high, N modules wide, and P modules long, where M, N, and P are positive whole numbers. A rack may be able to support any number of modules having any number of configurations.

In some embodiments, racks may have one or more bays, each bay configured to accept one or more module. A device may be capable of operating when a bay has accepted a module. A device may be capable of operating even if one or more bays have not accepted a module.

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of a rack mounting configuration. One or more module 600 a, 600 b may be provided adjacent to one another. Any numbers of modules may be provided. For example, the modules may be vertically stacked atop one another. For instances, N modules may be vertically stacked on top of one another, where N is any positive whole number. In another example, the modules may be horizontally connected to one another. Any combination of vertical and/or horizontal connections between modules may be provided. The modules may directly contact one another or may have a connecting interface. In some instances, modules may be added or removed from the stack/group. The configuration may be capable of accommodating any number of modules. In some embodiments, the number of modules may or may not be restricted by a device housing.

In another embodiment, the support structure is disposed below a first module and successive modules are mountable on one another with or without the aid of mounting members disposed on each module. The mounting members may be connecting interfaces between modules. In an example, each module includes a magnetic mounting structure for securing a top surface of a first module to a bottom surface to a second module. Other connecting interfaces may be employed, which may include magnetic features, adhesives, sliding features, locking features, ties, snap-fits, hook-and-loop fasteners, twisting features, or plugs. The modules may be mechanically and/or electrically connected to one another. In such fashion, modules may be stacked on one or next to another to form a system for assaying a sample.

In other embodiments, a system for assaying a sample comprises a housing and a plurality of modules within the housing. In an embodiment, the housing is a rack having a plurality of mounting stations, an individual mounting station of the plurality of mounting stations for supporting a module. For example, a rack may be integrally formed with the housing. Alternatively, the housing may contain or surround the rack. The housing and the rack may or may not be formed of separate pieces that may or may not be connected to one another. An individual module of the plurality of modules comprises at least one station selected from the group consisting of a sample preparation station, assay station and detection station. The system comprises a fluid handling system configured to transfer a sample or reagent vessel within the individual module or from the individual module to another module within the housing of the system. In an embodiment, the fluid handling system is a pipette.

In some embodiments, all modules could be shared within a device or between devices. For example, a device may have one, some or all of its modules as specialized modules. In this case, a sample may be transported from one module to another module as need be. This movement may be sequential or random.

Any of the modules can be a shared resource or may comprise designated shared resources. In one example a designated shared resource may be a resource not available to all modules, or that may be available in limited numbers of modules. A shared resource may or may not be removable from the device. An example of a shared resource may include a cytometry station.

In an embodiment, the system further comprises a cytometry station for performing cytometry on one or more samples. The cytometry station may be supported by the rack and operatively coupled to each of the plurality of modules by a sample handling system.

Cytometry assays are typically used to optically measure characteristics of individual cells. The cells being monitored may be live and/or dead cells. By using appropriate dyes, stains, or other labeling molecules, cytometry may be used to determine the presence, quantity, and/or modifications of specific proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates, or other molecules. Properties that may be measured by cytometry also include measures of cellular function or activity, including but not limited to phagocytosis, active transport of small molecules, mitosis or meiosis; protein translation, gene transcription, DNA replication, DNA repair, protein secretion, apoptosis, chemotaxis, mobility, adhesion, antioxidizing activity, RNAi, protein or nucleic acid degradation, drug responses, infectiousness, and the activity of specific pathways or enzymes. Cytometry may also be used to determine information about a population of cells, including but not limited to cell counts, percent of total population, and variation in the sample population for any of the characteristics described above. The assays described herein may be used to measure one or more of the above characteristics for each cell, which may be advantageous to determining correlations or other relationships between different characteristics. The assays described herein may also be used to independently measure multiple populations of cells, for example by labeling a mixed cell population with antibodies specific for different cell lines.

Cytometry may be useful for determining characteristics of cells in real-time. Characteristics of cells may be monitored continuously and/or at different points in time. The different points in time may be at regular or irregular time intervals. The different points in time may be in accordance with a predetermined schedule or may be triggered by one or more event. Cytometry may use one or more imaging or other sensing technique described herein to detect change in cells over time. This may include cell movement or morphology. Kinematics or dynamics of a sample may be analyzed. Time series analysis may be provided for the cells. Such real-time detection may be useful for calculation of agglutination, coagulation, or prothrombin time. The presence of one or more molecule and/or disease, response to a disease and/or drug, may be ascertained based on the time-based analysis.

In an example, cytometric analysis is by flow cytometry or by microscopy. Flow cytometry typically uses a mobile liquid medium that sequentially carries individual cells to an optical detector. Microscopy typically uses optical means to detect stationary cells, generally by recording at least one magnified image. For microscopy, the stationary cells may be in a microscopy cuvette or slide, which may be positioned on a microscopy stage adjacent to or in optical connection with an imaging device for detecting the cells. Imaged cells may be, for example, counted or measured for one or more antigens or other features. It should be understood that flow cytometry and microscopy are not entirely exclusive. As an example, flow cytometry assays use microscopy to record images of cells passing by the optical detector. Many of the targets, reagents, assays, and detection methods may be the same for flow cytometry and microscopy. As such, unless otherwise specified, the descriptions provided herein should be taken to apply to these and other forms of cytometric analyses known in the art.

In some embodiments, up to about 10,000 cells of any given type may be measured. In other embodiments, various numbers of cells of any given type are measured, including, but not limited to, more than, and/or equal to about 10 cells, 30 cells, 50 cells, 100 cells, 150 cells, 200 cells, 300 cells, 500 cells, 700 cells, 1000 cells, 1500 cells, 2000 cells, 3000 cells, 5000 cells, 6000 cells, 7000 cells, 8000 cells, 9000 cells, 10000 cells, 100,000 cells, 500,000 cells, 1,000,000 cells, 5,000,000 cells, or 10,000,000 cells.

In some embodiments, cytometry is performed in microfluidic channels. For instance, flow cytometry analyses are performed in a single channel or in parallel in multiple channels. In some embodiments, flow cytometry sequentially or simultaneously measures multiple cell characteristics. In some instances, cytometry may occur within one or more of the tips/vessels described herein. Cytometry may be combined with cell sorting, where detection of cells that fulfill a specific set of characteristics are diverted from the flow stream and collected for storage, additional analysis, and/or processing. Such sorting may separate multiple populations of cells based on different sets of characteristics, such as 3 or 4-way sorting.

FIG. 7 shows a system 700 having a plurality of modules 701-706 and a cytometry station 707, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The plurality of modules include a first module 701, second module 702, third module 703, fourth module 704, fifth module 705 and sixth module 706.

The cytometry station 707 is operatively coupled to each of the plurality of modules 701-706 by way of a sample handling system 708. The sample handling system 708 may include a pipette, such as a positive displacement, air displacement or suction-type pipette, as described herein.

The cytometry station 707 includes a cytometer for performing cytometry on a sample, as described above and in other embodiments of the invention. The cytometry station 707 may perform cytometry on a sample while one or more of the modules 701-706 perform other preparation and/or assaying procedure on another sample. In some situations, the cytometry station 707 performs cytometry on a sample after the sample has undergone sample preparation in one or more of the modules 701-706.

The system 700 includes a support structure 709 having a plurality of bays (or mounting stations). The plurality of bays is for docking the modules 701-706 to the support structure 709. The support structure 709, as illustrated, is a rack.

Each module is secured to rack 709 with the aid of an attachment member. In an embodiment, an attachment member is a hook fastened to either the module or the bay. In such a case, the hook is configured to slide into a receptacle of either the module or the bay. In another embodiment, an attachment member includes a fastener, such as a screw fastener. In another embodiment, an attachment member is formed of a magnetic material. In such a case, the module and bay may include magnetic materials of opposite polarities so as to provide an attractive force to secure the module to the bay. In another embodiment, the attachment member includes one or more tracks or rails in the bay. In such a case, a module includes one or more structures for mating with the one or more tracks or rails, thereby securing the module to the rack 709. Optionally, power may be provided by the rails.

An example of a structure that may permit a module to mate with a rack may include one or more pins. In some cases, modules receive power directly from the rack. In some cases, a module may be a power source like a lithion ion, or fuel cell powered battery that powers the device internally. In an example, the modules are configured to mate with the rack with the aid of rails, and power for the modules comes directly from the rails. In another example, the modules mate with the rack with the aid of attachment members (rails, pins, hooks, fasteners), but power is provided to the modules wirelessly, such as inductively (i.e., inductive coupling).

In some embodiments, a module mating with a rack need not require pins. For example, an inductive electrical communication may be provided between the module and rack or other support. In some instances, wireless communications may be used, such as with the aid of ZigBee communications or other communication protocols.

Each module may be removable from the rack 709. In some situations, one module is replaceable with a like, similar or different module. In an embodiment, a module is removed from the rack 709 by sliding the module out of the rack. In another embodiment, a module is removed from the rack 709 by twisting or turning the module such that an attachment member of the module disengages from the rack 709. Removing a module from the rack 709 may terminate any electrical connectivity between the module and the rack 709.

In an embodiment, a module is attached to the rack by sliding the module into the bay. In another embodiment, a module is attached to the rack by twisting or turning the module such that an attachment member of the module engages the rack 709. Attaching a module to the rack 709 may establish an electrical connection between the module and the rack. The electrical connection may be for providing power to the module or to the rack or to the device from the module and/or providing a communications bus between the module and one or more other modules or a controller of the system 700.

Each bay of the rack may be occupied or unoccupied. As illustrated, all bays of the rack 709 are occupied with a module. In some situations, however, one or more of the bays of the rack 709 are not occupied by a module. In an example, the first module 701 has been removed from the rack. The system 700 in such a case may operate without the removed module.

In some situations, a bay may be configured to accept a subset of the types of modules the system 700 is configured to use. For example, a bay may be configured to accept a module capable of running an agglutination assay but not a cytometry assay. In such a case, the module may be “specialized” for agglutination. Agglutination may be measured in a variety of ways. Measuring the time-dependent change in turbidity of the sample is one method. One can achieve this by illuminating the sample with light and measuring the reflected light at 90 degrees with an optical sensor, such as a photodiode or camera. Over time, the measured light would increase as more light is scattered by the sample. Measuring the time dependent change in transmittance is another example. In the latter case, this can be achieved by illuminating the sample in a vessel and measuring the light that passes through the sample with an optical sensor, such as a photodiode or a camera. Over time, as the sample agglutinates, the measured light may reduce or increase (depending, for example, on whether the agglutinated material remains in suspension or settles out of suspension). In other situations, a bay may be configured to accept all types of modules that the system 700 is configured to use, ranging from detection stations to the supporting electrical systems.

Each of the modules may be configured to function (or perform) independently from the other modules. In an example, the first module 701 is configured to perform independently from the second 702, third 703, fourth 704, fifth 705 and sixth 706 modules. In other situations, a module is configured to perform with one or more other modules. In such a case, the modules may enable parallel processing of one or more samples. In an example, while the first module 701 prepares a sample, the second module 702 assays the same or different sample. This may enable a minimization or elimination of downtime among the modules.

The support structure (or rack) 709 may have a server type configuration. In some situations, various dimensions of the rack are standardized. In an example, spacing between the modules 701-706 is standardized as multiples of at least about 0.5 inches, or 1 inch, or 2 inches, or 3 inches, or 4 inches, or 5 inches, or 6 inches, or 7 inches, or 8 inches, or 9 inches, or 10 inches, or 11 inches, or 12 inches.

The rack 709 may support the weight of one or more of the modules 701-706. Additionally, the rack 709 has a center of gravity that is selected such that the module 701 (top) is mounted on the rack 709 without generating a moment arm that may cause the rack 709 to spin or fall over. In some situations, the center of gravity of the rack 709 is disposed between the vertical midpoint of the rack and a base of the rack, the vertical midpoint being 50% from the base of the rack 709 and a top of the rack. In an embodiment, the center of gravity of the rack 709, as measured along a vertical axis away from the base of the rack 709, is disposed at least about 0.1%, or 1%, or 10%, or 20%, or 30%, or 40%, or 50%, or 60%, or 70%, or 80%, or 90%, or 100% of the height of the rack as measured from the base of the rack 709.

A rack may have multiple bays (or mounting stations) configured to accept one or more modules. In an example, the rack 709 has six mounting stations for permitting each of the modules 701-706 to mount the rack. In some situations, the bays are on the same side of the rack. In other situations, the bays are on alternating sides of the rack.

In some embodiments, the system 700 includes an electrical connectivity component for electrically connecting the modules 701-706 to one another. The electrical connectivity component may be a bus, such as a system bus. In some situations, the electrical connectivity component also enables the modules 701-706 to communicate with each other and/or a controller of the system 700.

In some embodiments, the system 700 includes a controller (not shown) for facilitating processing of samples with the aid of one or more of the modules 701-706. In an embodiment, the controller facilitates parallel processing of the samples in the modules 701-706. In an example, the controller directs the sample handling system 708 to provide a sample in the first module 701 and second module 702 to run different assays on the sample at the same time. In another example, the controller directs the sample handling system 708 to provide a sample in one of the modules 701-706 and also provide the sample (such as a portion of a finite volume of the sample) to the cytometry station 707 so that cytometry and one or more other sample preparation procedures and/or assays are done on the sample in parallel. In such fashion, the system minimizes, if not eliminates, downtime among the modules 701-706 and the cytometry station 707.

Each individual module of the plurality of modules may include a sample handling system for providing samples to and removing samples from various processing and assaying modules of the individual module. In addition, each module may include various sample processing and/or assaying modules, in addition to other components for facilitating processing and/or assaying of a sample with the aid of the module. The sample handling system of each module may be separate from the sample handling system 708 of the system 700. That is, the sample handling system 708 transfers samples to and from the modules 701-706, whereas the sample handling system of each module transfers samples to and from various sample processing and/or assaying modules included within each module.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, the sixth module 706 includes a sample handling system 710 including a suction-type pipette 711 and positive displacement pipette 712. The sixth module 706 includes a centrifuge 713, a spectrophotometer 714, a nucleic acid assay (such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay) station 715 and PMT 716. An example of the spectrophotometer 714 is shown in FIG. 27 (see below). The sixth module 706 further includes a cartridge 717 for holding a plurality of tips for facilitating sample transfer to and from each processing or assaying module of the sixth module.

In an embodiment, the suction type pipette 711 includes 1 or more, or 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 6 or more, or 7 or more, or 8 or more, or 9 or more, or 10 or more, or 15 or more, or 20 or more, or 30 or more, or 40 or more, or 50 or more heads. In an example, the suction type pipette 711 is an 8-head pipette with eight heads. The suction type pipette 711 may be as described in other embodiments of the invention.

In some embodiments, the positive displacement pipette 712 has a coefficient of variation less than or equal to about 20%, 15%, 12%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.3%, or 0.1% or less. The coefficient of variation is determined according to σ/μ, wherein ‘σ’ is the standard deviation and ‘μ’ is the mean across sample measurements.

In an embodiment, all modules are identical to one another. In another embodiment, at least some of the modules are different from one another. In an example, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth modules 701-706 include a positive displacement pipette and suction-type pipette and various assays, such as a nucleic acid assay and spectrophotometer. In another example, at least one of the modules 701-706 may have assays and/or sample preparation stations that are different from the other modules. In an example, the first module 701 includes an agglutination assay but not a nucleic acid amplification assay, and the second module 702 includes a nucleic acid assay but not an agglutination assay. Modules may not include any assays.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, the modules 701-706 include the same assays and sample preparation (or manipulation) stations. However, in other embodiments, each module includes any number and combination of assays and processing stations described herein.

The modules may be stacked vertically or horizontally with respect to one another. Two modules are oriented vertically in relation to one another if they are oriented along a plane that is parallel, substantially parallel, or nearly parallel to the gravitational acceleration vector. Two modules are oriented horizontally in relation to one another if they are oriented along a plane orthogonal, substantially orthogonal, or nearly orthogonal to the gravitational acceleration vector.

In an embodiment, the modules are stacked vertically, i.e., one module on top of another module. In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, the rack 709 is oriented such that the modules 701-706 are disposed vertically in relation to one another. However, in other situations the modules are disposed horizontally in relation to one another. In such a case, the rack 709 may be oriented such that the modules 701-706 may be situated horizontally alongside one another.

Referring now to FIG. 7A, yet another embodiment of a system 730 is shown with a plurality of modules 701 to 704. This embodiment of FIG. 7A shows a horizontal configuration wherein the modules 701 to 704 are mounted to a support structure 732 on which a transport device 734 can move along the X, Y, and/or optionally Z axis to move elements such as but not limited sample vessels, tips, cuvettes, or the like within a module and/or between modules. By way of non-limiting example, the modules 701-704 are oriented horizontally in relation to one another if they are oriented along a plane orthogonal, substantially orthogonal, or nearly orthogonal to the gravitational acceleration vector.

It should be understood that, like the embodiment of FIG. 7, modules 701-704 may all be modules that are identical to one another. In another embodiment, at least some of the modules are different from one another. In an example, the first, second, third, and/or fourth modules 701-704 may be replaced by one or more other modules that can occupy the location of the module being replaced. The other modules may optionally provide different functionality such as but not limited to a replacing one of the modules 701-704 with one or more cytometry modules 707, communications modules, storage modules, sample preparation modules, slide preparation modules, tissue preparation modules, or the like. For example, one of the modules 701-704 may be replaced with one or more modules that provide a different hardware configuration such as but not limited to provide a thermal controlled storage chamber for incubation, storage between testing, and/or storage after testing. Optionally, the module replacing one or more of the modules 701-704 can provide a non-assay related functionality, such as but not limited to additional telecommunication equipment for the system 730, additional imaging or user interface equipment, or additional power source such as but not limited to batteries, fuel cells, or the like. Optionally, the module replacing one or more of the modules 701-704 may provide storage for additional disposables and/or reagents or fluids. It should be understood that although FIG. 7A shows only four modules mounted on the support structure, other embodiments having fewer or more modules are not excluded from this horizontal mounting configuration. It should also be understood that configurations may also be run with not every bay or slot occupied by a module, particularly in any scenario wherein one or more types of modules draw more power that other modules. In such a configuration, power otherwise directed to an empty bay can be used by the module that may draw more power than the others.

In one non-limiting example, each module is secured to the support structure 732 with the aid of an attachment member. In an embodiment, an attachment member is a hook fastened to either the module or the bay. In such a case, the hook is configured to slide into a receptacle of either the module or the bay. In another embodiment, an attachment member includes a fastener, such as a screw fastener. In another embodiment, an attachment member is formed of a magnetic material. In such a case, the module and bay may include magnetic materials of opposite polarities so as to provide an attractive force to secure the module to the bay. In another embodiment, the attachment member includes one or more tracks or rails in the bay. In such a case, a module includes one or more structures for mating with the one or more tracks or rails, thereby securing the module to the support structure 732. Optionally, power may be provided by the rails.

An example of a structure that may permit a module to mate with a support structure 732 may include one or more pins. In some cases, modules receive power directly from the support structure 732. In some cases, a module may be a power source like a lithium ion, or fuel cell powered battery that powers the device internally. In an example, the modules are configured to mate with the support structure 732 with the aid of rails, and power for the modules comes directly from the rails. In another example, the modules mate with the support structure 732 with the aid of attachment members (rails, pins, hooks, fasteners), but power is provided to the modules wirelessly, such as inductively (i.e., inductive coupling).

Referring now to FIG. 7B, yet another embodiment of a system 740 is shown with a plurality of modules 701 to 706. FIG. 7B shows that a support structure 742 is provided that can allow a transport device 744 to move along the X, Y, and/or optionally Z axis to transport elements such as but not limited sample vessels, tips, cuvettes, or the like within a module and/or between modules. The transport device 744 can be configured to access either column of modules. Optionally, some embodiments may have more than one transport device 744 to provide higher throughput of transport capabilities for vessels or other elements between modules. For clarity, the transport device 744 shown in phantom may represent a second transport device 744. Alternatively, it can also be used to show where the transport device 744 is located when service the second column of modules. It should also be understood that embodiments having still further rows and/or columns can also be created by using a larger support structure to accommodate such a configuration.

It should be understood that, like the embodiment of FIG. 7, modules 701-706 may all be modules that are identical to one another. In another embodiment, at least some of the modules are different from one another. In an example, the first, second, third, and/or fourth modules 701-706 may be replaced by one or more other modules that can occupy the location of the module being replaced. The other modules may optionally provide different functionality such as but not limited to a replacing one of the modules 701-706 with one or more cytometry modules 707, communications modules, storage modules, sample preparation modules, slide preparation modules, tissue preparation modules, or the like.

It should be understood that although FIG. 7B shows only six modules mounted on the support structure, other embodiments having fewer or more modules are not excluded from this horizontal and vertical mounting configuration. It should also be understood that configurations may also be run with not every bay or slot occupied by a module, particularly in any scenario wherein one or more types of modules draw more power that other modules. In such a configuration, power otherwise directed to an empty bay can be used by the module that may draw more power than the others.

Referring now to FIG. 7C, yet another embodiment of a system 750 is shown with a plurality of modules 701, 702, 703, 704, 706, and 707. FIG. 7C also shows that they system 750 has an additional module 752 that can with one or more modules that provide a different hardware configuration such as but not limited to provide a thermal controlled storage chamber for incubation, storage between testing, or storage after testing. Optionally, the module replacing one or more of the modules 701-704 can provide a non-assay related functionality, such as but not limited to additional telecommunication equipment for the system 730, additional imaging or user interface equipment, or additional power source such as but not limited to batteries, fuel cells, or the like. Optionally, the module replacing one or more of the modules 701-707 may provide storage for additional disposables and/or reagents or fluids.

It should be understood that although FIG. 7C shows seven modules mounted on the support structure, other embodiments having fewer or more modules are not excluded from this mounting configuration. It should also be understood that configurations may also be run with not every bay or slot occupied by a module, particularly in any scenario wherein one or more types of modules draw more power that other modules. In such a configuration, power otherwise directed to an empty bay can be used by the module that may draw more power than the others.

In some embodiments, the modules 701-706 are in communication with one another and/or a controller of the system 700 by way of a communications bus (“bus”), which may include electronic circuitry and components for facilitating communication among the modules and/or the controller. The communications bus includes a subsystem that transfers data between the modules and/or controller of the system 700. A bus may bring various components of the system 700 in communication with a central processing unit (CPU), memory (e.g., internal memory, system cache) and storage location (e.g., hard disk) of the system 700.

A communications bus may include parallel electrical wires with multiple connections, or any physical arrangement that provides logical functionality as a parallel electrical bus. A communications bus may include both parallel and bit-serial connections, and can be wired in either a multidrop (i.e., electrical parallel) or daisy chain topology, or connected by switched hubs. In an embodiment, a communications bus may be a first generation bus, second generation bus or third generation bus. The communications bus permits communication between each of the modules and other modules and/or the controller. In some situations, the communications bus enables communication among a plurality of systems, such as a plurality of systems similar or identical to the system 700.

The system 700 may include one or more of a serial bus, parallel bus, or self-repairable bus. A bus may include a master scheduler that control data traffic, such as traffic to and from modules (e.g., modules 701-706), controller, and/or other systems. A bus may include an external bus, which connects external devices and systems to a main system board (e.g., motherboard), and an internal bus, which connects internal components of a system to the system board. An internal bus connects internal components to one or more central processing units (CPUs) and internal memory.

In some embodiments, the communication bus may be a wireless bus. The commuincations bus may be a Firewire (IEEE 1394), USB (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, or others), or Thunderbolt.

In some embodiments, the system 700 includes one or more buses selected from the group consisting of Media Bus, Computer Automated Measurement and Control (CAMAC) bus, industry standard architecture (ISA) bus, USB bus, Firewire, Thunderbolt, extended ISA (EISA) bus, low pin count bus, MBus, MicroChannel bus, Multibus, NuBus or IEEE 1196, OPTi local bus, peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) bus, Q-Bus, S-100 bus (or IEEE 696), SBus (or IEEE 1496), SS-50 bus, STEbus, STD bus (for STD-80 [8-bit] and STD32 [16-/32-bit]), Unibus, VESA local bus, VMEbus, PC/104 bus, PC/104 Plus bus, PC/104 Express bus, PCI-104 bus, PCIe-104 bus, 1-Wire bus, HyperTransport bus, Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C) bus, PCI Express (or PCIe) bus, Serial ATA (SATA) bus, Serial Peripheral Interface bus, UNI/O bus, SMBus, 2-wire or 3-wire interface, self-repairable elastic interface buses and variants and/or combinations thereof.

In some situations, the system 700 includes a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), which is an interface between one or more microprocessors and peripheral elements or I/O components (e.g., modules 701-706) of the system 700. The SPI can be used to attach 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 6 or more, or 7 or more, or 8 or more, or 9 or more, or 10 or more or 50 or more or 100 or more SPI compatible I/O components to a microprocessor or a plurality of microprocessors. In other instances, the system 700 includes RS-485 or other standards.

In an embodiment, an SPI is provided having an SPI bridge having a parallel and/or series topology. Such a bridge allows selection of one of many SPI components on an SPI I/O bus without the proliferation of chip selects. This is accomplished by the application of appropriate control signals, described below, to allow daisy chaining the device or chip selects for the devices on the SPI bus. It does however retain parallel data paths so that there is no Daisy Chaining of data to be transferred between SPI components and a microprocessor.

In some embodiments, an SPI bridge component is provided between a microprocessor and a plurality of SPI I/O components which are connected in a parallel and/or series (or serial) topology. The SPI bridge component enables parallel SPI using MISO and MOSI lines and serial (daisy chain) local chip select connection to other slaves (CSL/). In an embodiment, SPI bridge components provided herein resolve any issues associated with multiple chip selects for multiple slaves. In another embodiment, SPI bridge components provided herein support four, eight, sixteen, thirty two, sixty four or more individual chip selects for four SPI enabled devices (CS1/-CS4/). In another embodiment, SPI bridge components provided herein enable four times cascading with external address line setting (ADR0-ADR1). In some situations, SPI bridge components provided herein provide the ability to control up to eight, sixteen, thirty two, sixty four or more general output bits for control or data. SPI bridge components provided herein in some cases enable the control of up to eight, sixteen, thirty two, sixty four or more general input bits for control or data, and may be used for device identification to the master and/or diagnostics communication to the master.

FIG. 8 shows an example of a multi-rack system. For example, a first rack 800 a may be connected and/or adjacent to a second rack 800 b. Each rack may include one or more module 810. In another embodiment, the system includes a plurality of racks that are disposed vertically in relation to one another—that is, one rack on top of another rack. In some embodiments, the racks may form a vertical array (e.g., one or more racks high and one or more racks wide), a horizontal array (one or more racks wide, one or more racks long), or a three-dimensional array (one or more racks high, one or more racks wide, and one or more racks long).

In some embodiments, the modules may be disposed on the racks, depending on rack configuration. For example, if vertically oriented racks are placed adjacent to one another, modules may be disposed vertically along the racks. If horizontally oriented racks are placed on top of one another, modules may be disposed horizontally along the racks. Racks may be connected to one another via any sort of connecting interface, including those previously described for modules. Racks may or may not contact one another. Racks may be mechanically and/or electrically connected to one another.

In another embodiment, the system includes a plurality of racks, and each rack among the plurality of racks is configured for a different use, such as sample processing. In an example, a first rack is configured for sample preparation and cytometry and a second rack is configured for sample preparation and agglutination. In another embodiment, the racks are disposed horizontally (i.e., along an axis orthogonal to the gravitational acceleration vector). In another embodiment, the system includes a plurality of racks, and two or more racks among the plurality of racks are configured for the same use, such as sample preparation or processing.

In some cases, a system having a plurality of racks includes a single controller that is configured to direct (or facilitate) sample processing in each rack. In other cases, each individual rack among a plurality of racks includes a controller configured to facilitate sample processing in the individual rack. The controllers may be in network or electrical communication with one another.

A system having a plurality of racks may include a communications bus (or interface) for bringing the plurality of racks in communication with one another. This permits parallel processing among the racks. For instance, for a system including two racks commutatively coupled to one another with the aid of a communications bus, the system processes a first sample in a first of the two racks while the system processes a second sample in a second of the two racks.

A system having a plurality of racks may include one or more sample handling systems for transferring samples to and from racks. In an example, a system includes three racks and two sample handling systems to transfer samples to and from each of the first, second and third racks.

In some embodiments, sample handling systems are robots or robotic-arms for facilitating sample transfer among racks, among modules in a rack, and/or within modules. In some embodiments, each module may have one or more robots. The robots may be useful for moving components within or amongst different modules or other components of a system. In other embodiments, sample handling systems are actuator (e.g., electrical motors, pneumatic actuators, hydraulic actuators, linear actuators, comb drive, piezoelectric actuators and amplified piezoelectric actuators, thermal bimorphs, micromirror devices and electroactive polymers) devices for facilitating sample transfer among racks or modules in a rack. In other embodiments, sample handling systems include pipettes, such as positive displacement, suction-type or air displacement pipettes which may optionally have robotic capabilities or robots with pipetting capability. One or more robots may be useful for transferring sampling systems from one location to another.

The robotic arm (also “arm” here) is configured to transfer (or shuttle) samples to and from modules or, in some cases, among racks. In an example, an arm transfers samples among a plurality of vertically oriented modules in a rack. In another example, an arm transfers samples among a plurality of horizontally oriented modules in a rack. In another example, an arm transfers samples among a plurality of horizontally and vertically oriented modules in a rack.

Each arm may include a sample manipulation device (or member) for supporting a sample during transport to and from a module and/or one or more other racks. In an embodiment, the sample manipulation device is configured to support a tip or vessel (e.g., container, vial) having the sample. The sample manipulation device may be configured to support a sample support, such as a microcard or a cartridge. Alternatively, the manipulation device may have one or more features that may permit the manipulation device to serve as a sample support. The sample manipulation device may or may not include a platform, gripper, magnet, fastener, or any other mechanism that may be useful for the transport.

In some embodiments, the arm is configured to transfer a module from one bay to another. In an example, the arm transfers a module from a first bay in a first rack to a first bay in a second rack, or from the first bay in the first rack to a second bay in the second rack.

The arm may have one or more actuation mechanism that may permit the arm to transfer the sample and/or module. For example, one or more motor may be provided that may permit movement of the arm.

In some instances, the arm may move along a track. For example, a vertical and/or horizontal track may be provided. In some instances, the robot arm may be a magnetic mount with a kinematic locking mount.

In some embodiments, robots, such as a robotic arm, may be provided within a device housing. The robots may be provided within a rack, and/or within a module. Alternatively, they may be external to a rack and/or module. They may permit movement of components within a device, between tracks, between modules, or within modules. The robots may move one or more component, including but not limited to a sample handling system, such as a pipette, vessel/tip, cartridge, centrifuge, cytometer, camera, detection unit, thermal control unit, assay station or system, or any other component described elsewhere herein. The components may be movable within a module, within a rack, or within the device. The components may be movable within the device even if no rack or module is provided within the device. The robots may move one or more module. The modules may be movable within the device. The robots may move one or more racks. The racks may be movable within the device.

The robots may move using one or more different actuation mechanism. Such actuation mechanisms may use mechanical components, electromagnetic, magnetism, thermal properties, piezoelectric properties, optics, or any other properties or combinations thereof. For example, the actuation mechanisms may use a motor (e.g., linear motor, stepper motor), lead screw, magnetic track, or any other actuation mechanism. In some instances, the robots may be electronically, magnetically, thermally or optically controlled.

FIG. 25A provides an example of a magnetic way of controlling the position of a robot or other item. A top view shows an array of magnets 6800. A coil support structure 6810 may be provided adjacent to the magnets. A coil support structure may be made from electrically conductive, weak magnetic material.

The array of magnets may include a strip of magnets, or an m×n array of magnets, where m and/or n is greater than or equal to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, or 100.

FIG. 25B provides a side view of the magnetic control. A coil support structure 6810 may have one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more conducting coils 6820 thereon. The coil support structure may be adjacent to an array of magnets 6800.

Passive damping may be provided as well as use of electrically conductive magnetic materials.

The actuation mechanisms may be capable of moving with very high precision. For example, the robots may be capable of moving with a precision of within about 0.01 nm, 0.05 nm, 0.1 nm, 0.5 nm, 1 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 30 nm, 50 nm, 75 nm, 100 nm, 150 nm, 200 nm, 250 nm, 300 nm, 400 nm, 500 nm, 600 nm, 700 nm, 800 nm, 900 nm, 1 μm, 1.5 μm, 2 μm, 3 μm, 4 μm, 5 μm, 7 μm, 10 μm, 15 μm, 20 μm, 25 μm, 30 μm, 40 μm, 50 μm, 75 μm, 100 μm, 150 μm, 200 μm, 250 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, 750 μm, 1 mm, 2 mm, or 3 mm.

The robots may be capable of moving in any direction. The robots may be capable of moving in a lateral direction (e.g., horizontal direction) and/or a vertical direction. A robot may be capable of moving within a horizontal plane, and/or a vertical plane. A robot may be capable of moving in an x, y, and/or z direction wherein an x-axis, y-axis, and z-axis are orthogonal to one another. Some robots may only move within one dimension, two dimensions, and/or three dimensions.

In some situations, the term “system” as used herein may refer to a “device” or “sample processing device” disclosed herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Plug-and-Play

In an aspect of the invention, plug-and-play systems are described. The plug-and-play systems are configured to assay at least one sample, such as a tissue or fluid sample, from a subject.

In some embodiments, the plug-and-play system comprises a supporting structure having a mounting station configured to support a module among a plurality of modules. The module is detachable from the mounting station. In some cases, the module is removably detachable—that is, the module may be removed from the mounting station and returned to its original position on the mounting station. Alternatively, the module may be replaced with another module.

In an embodiment, the module is configured to perform without the aid of another module in the system (a) at least one sample preparation procedure selected from the group consisting of sample processing, centrifugation, magnetic separation, or (b) at least one type of assay selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and/or other types of assays or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the module is configured to be in electrical, electro-magnetic or optoelectronic communication with a controller. The controller is configured to provide one or more instructions to the module or individual modules of the plurality of modules to facilitate performance of the at least one sample preparation procedure or the at least one type of assay.

In an embodiment, the system is in communication with a controller for coordinating or facilitating the processing of samples. In an embodiment, the controller is part of the system. In another embodiment, the controller is remotely located with respect to the system. In an example, the controller is in network communication with the system.

In an embodiment, a module is coupled to a support structure. The support structure may be a rack having a plurality of bays for accepting a plurality of modules. The support structure is part of the system configured to accept the module. In an embodiment, the module is hot-swappable—that is, the module may be exchanged with another module or removed from the support structure while the system is processing other samples.

In some embodiments, upon a user hot-swapping a first module for a second module, the system is able to detect and identify the second module and update a list of modules available for use by the system. This permits the system to determine which resources are available for use by the system for processing a sample. For instance, if a cytometry module is swapped for an agglutination module and the system has no other cytometry modules, then the system will know that the system is unable to perform cytometry on a sample.

The plurality of modules may include the same module or different modules. In some cases, the plurality of modules are multi-purpose (or multi-use) modules configured for various preparation and/or processing functionalities. In other cases, the plurality of modules may be special-use (or special-purpose) modules configured for fewer functionalities than the multi-purpose modules. In an example, one or more of the modules is a special-use module configured for cytometry.

In some embodiments, the system is configured to detect the type of module without the need for any user input. Such plug-and-play functionality advantageously enables a user to insert a module into the system for use without having to input any commands or instructions.

In some situations, the controller is configured to detect a module. In such a case, when a user plugs a module into the system, the system detects the module and determines whether the module is a multi-use module or special-use module. In some cases, the system is able to detect a module with the use of an electronic identifier, which may include a unique identifier. In other cases, the system is able to detect the module with the aid of a physical identifier, such as a bar code or an electronic component configured to provide a unique radio frequency identification (RFID) code, such as an RFID number or a unique ID through the system bus.

The system may detect a module automatically or upon request from a user or another system or electronic component in communication with the system. In an example, upon a user inputting the module 701 into the system 700, the system 700 detects the module, which may permit the system 700 to determine the type of module (e.g., cytometry module).

In some situations, the system is configured to also determine the location of the module, which may permit the system to build a virtual map of modules, such as, e.g., for facilitating parallel processing (see below). In an example, the system 700 is configured to detect the physical location of each of the modules 701-706. In such a case, the system 700 knows that the first module 701 is located in a first port (or bay) of the system 700.

Modules may have the same component or different components. In an embodiment, each module has the same components, such as those described above in the context of FIG. 7. That is, each module includes pipettes and various sample processing stations. In another embodiment, the modules have different components. In an example, some modules are configured for cytometry assays while other are configured for agglutination assays.

In another embodiment, a shared module may be a dedicated cooling or heating unit that is providing cooling or heating capabilities to the device or other modules as needed.

In another embodiment, a shared resource module may be a rechargeable battery pack. Examples of batteries may include, but are not limited to, zinc-carbon, zinc-chloride, alkaline, oxy-nickel hydroxide, lithium, mercury oxide, zinc-air, silver oxide, NiCd, lead acid, NiMH, NiZn, or lithium ion. These batteries may be hot-swappable or not. The rechargeable battery may be coupled with external power source. The rechargeable battery module may be recharged while the device is plugged into an external power source or the battery module may be taken out of device and recharged externally to the device in a dedicated recharging station or directly plugged into an external power supply. The dedicated recharging station may be the device or be operatively connected to the device (e.g., recharging can be done via induction without direct physical contact). The recharging station may be a solar powered recharging station or may be powered by other clean or conventional sources. The recharging station may be powered by a conventional power generator. The battery module may provide Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) to the device or bank of devices in case of power interruptions from external supply.

In another embodiment, the shared resource module may be a ‘compute farm’ or collection of high performance general purpose or specific purpose processors packed together with appropriate cooling as a module dedicated to high performance computing inside the device or to be shared by collection of devices.

In another embodiment, a module may be an assembly of high performance and/or high capacity storage devices to provide large volume of storage space (e.g. 1 TB, 2 TB, 10 TB, 100 TB, 1 PB, 100 PB or more) on the device to be shared by all modules, modules in other devices that may be sharing resources with the device and even by the external controller to cache large amounts of data locally to a device or a physical site or collection of sites or any other grouping of devices.

In another embodiment, a shared module may be a satellite communication module that is capable of providing communication capabilities to communicate with satellite from the device or other devices that may be sharing resources.

In another embodiment, the module may be an internet router and/or a wireless router providing full routing and/or a hotspot capability to the device or bank of devices that are allowed to share the resources of the device.

In some embodiments, the module, alone or in combination with other modules (or systems) provided herein, may act as a ‘data center’ for either the device or bank of devices allowed to share the resources of the device providing high performance computing, high volume storage, high performance networking, satellite or other forms of dedicated communication capabilities in the device for a given location or site or for multiple locations or sites.

In one embodiment, a shared module may be a recharging station for wireless or wired peripherals that are used in conjunction with the device.

In one embodiment, a shared module may be a small refrigeration or temperature control storage unit to stores, samples, cartridges, other supplies for the device.

In another embodiment, a module may be configured to automatically dispense prescription or other pharmaceutical drugs. The module may also have other components such as packet sealers and label printers that make packaging and dispensing drugs safe and effective. The module may be programmed remotely or in the device to automatically dispense drugs based on real time diagnosis of biological sample, or any other algorithm or method that determines such need. The system may have the analytics for pharmacy decision support to support the module around treatment decisions, dosing, and other pharmacy-related decision support.

Modules may have swappable components. In an example, a module has a positive displacement pipette that is swappable with the same type of pipette or a different type of pipette, such as a suction-type pipette. In another example, a module has an assay station that is swappable with the same type of assay station (e.g., cytometry) or a different type of assay station (e.g., agglutination). The module and system are configured to recognize the modules and components in the modules and update or modify processing routines, such as parallel processing routines, in view of the modules coupled to the system and the components in each of the modules.

In some cases, the modules may be external to the device and connected to the device through device's bus (e.g. via a USB port).

FIG. 9 shows an example of a module 900 having one or more components 910. A module may have one or more controller. The components 910 are electrically coupled to one another and/or the controller via a communications bus (“Bus”), such as, for example, a bus as described above in the context of FIG. 7. In an example, the module 900 includes a one or more buses selected from the group consisting of Media Bus, Computer Automated Measurement and Control (CAMAC) bus, industry standard architecture (ISA) bus, extended ISA (EISA) bus, low pin count bus, MBus, MicroChannel bus, Multibus, NuBus or IEEE 1196, OPTi local bus, peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) bus, Q-Bus, S-100 bus (or IEEE 696), SBus (or IEEE 1496), SS-50 bus, STEbus, STD bus (for STD-80 [8-bit] and STD32 [16-/32-bit]), Unibus, VESA local bus, VMEbus, PC/104 bus, PC/104 Plus bus, PC/104 Express bus, PCI-104 bus, PCIe-104 bus, 1-Wire bus, HyperTransport bus, Inter-Integrated Circuit (I²C) bus, PCI Express (or PCIe) bus, Serial ATA (SATA) bus, Serial Peripheral Interface bus, UNI/O bus, SMBus, self-repairable elastic interface buses and variants and/or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the communications bus is configured to communicatively couple the components 910 to one another and the controller. In another embodiment, the communications bus is configured to communicatively couple the components 910 to the controller. In an embodiment, the communications bus is configured to communicatively couple the components 910 to one another. In some embodiments, the module 900 includes a power bus that provides power to one or more of the components 910. The power bus may be separate from the communications bus. In other embodiments, power is provided to one or more of the components with the aid of the communications bus.

In an embodiment, the components 910 may be swappable, such as hot-swappable. In another embodiment, the components 910 are removable from the module 900. The components 910 are configured for sample preparation, processing and testing. Each of the components 910 may be configured to process a sample with the aid of one or more sample processing, preparation and/or testing routines.

In the illustrated example, the module 900 includes six components 910: a first component (Component 1), second component (Component 2), third component (Component 3), fourth component (Component 4), fifth component (Component 5), and sixth component (Component 6). The module 900 generally includes 1 or more, or 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 6 or more, or 7 or more, or 8 or more, or 9 or more, or 10 or more, or 20 or more, or 30 or more, or 40 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more components 910. The components 910, with the aid of the controller communicative (and electrically) coupled to the components 910, are configured for serial and/or parallel processing of a sample.

In an example, Component 1 is a centrifuge, Component 2 is a spectrophotometer, Component 3 is a Nucleic Acid (assay station and Component 4 is a PMT station, Component 5 is a tip holder and Component 6 is a sample washing station.

In an embodiment, the components are configured to process a sample in series. In such a case, a sample is processed in the components in sequence (i.e., Component 1, Component 2, etc.). In another embodiment, sample processing is not necessarily sequential. In an example, a sample is first processed in Component 4 followed by Component 1.

In an embodiment, the components 910 process samples in parallel. That is, a component may process a sample while one or more other components process the sample or a different sample. In an example, Component 1 processes a sample while Component 2 processes a sample. In another embodiment, the components 910 process sample sequentially. That is, while one component processes a sample, another component does not process a sample.

In some embodiments, the module 900 includes a sample handling system configured to transfer a sample to and from the components 910. In an embodiment, the sample handling system is a positive displacement pipette. In another embodiment, the sample handling system is a suction-type pipette. In another embodiment, the sample handling system is an air-displacement pipette. In another embodiment, the sample handing system includes one or more of a suction-type pipette, positive displacement pipette and air-displacement pipette. In another embodiment, the sample handing system includes any two of a suction-type pipette, positive displacement pipette and air-displacement pipette. In another embodiment, the sample handing system includes a suction-type pipette, positive displacement pipette and air-displacement pipette.

In some embodiments, the components 910 are swappable with other components. In an embodiment, each component is swappable with the same component (i.e., another component having the same functionality). In another embodiment, each component is swappable with a different component (i.e., a component having different functionality). The components 910 are hot swappable or removable upon shutdown of the module 900.

FIG. 10 shows a system 1000 having a plurality of modules mounted to bays of the system 1000, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The system includes a first module (Module 1), second module (Module 2) and third module (Module 3). The system 1000 includes a communications bus (“Bus”) for bringing a controller of the system 1000 in communication with each of the modules. The communications bus (also “system bus” herein) of the system 1000 is also configured to bring the modules in communication with one another. In some situations, the controller of the system 1000 is optional.

With continued reference to FIG. 10, each module includes a plurality of stations (or sub-modules), designated by Mxy, wherein ‘x’ designates the module and ‘y’ designates the station. Each module optionally includes a controller that is communicatively coupled to each of the stations via a communications bus (also “module bus” herein). In some cases, a controller is communicatively coupled to the system bus through the module bus.

Module 1 includes a first station (M11), second station (M12), third station (M13) and controller (C1). Module 2 includes a first station (M21), second station (M22), third station (M23) and controller (C2). Module 3 includes a first station (M31) and controller (C3). The controllers of the modules are communicatively coupled to each of the stations via a communications bus. The stations are selected from the group consisting of preparation stations, assaying stations and detection stations. Preparation stations are configured for sample preparation; assaying stations are configured for sample assaying; and detection stations are configured for analyte detection.

In an embodiment, each module bus is configured to permit a station to be removed such that the module may function without the removed station. In an example, M11 may be removed from module 1 while permitting M12 and M13 to function. In another embodiment, each station is hot-swappable with another station—that is, one station may be replaced with another station without removing the module or shutting down the system 1000.

In some embodiments, the stations are removable from the modules. In other embodiments, the stations are replaceable by other stations. In an example, M11 is replaced by M22.

With respect to a particular module, each station may be different or two or more stations may be the same. In an example, M11 is a centrifuge and M12 is an agglutination station. As another example, M22 is a nucleic acid assay station and M23 is an x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy station.

Two or more of the modules may have the same configuration of stations or a different configuration. In some situations, a module may be a specialized module. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 10, module 3 has a single station, M31, that is communicatively coupled to C3.

The system 1000 includes a sample handling system for transferring samples to and from the modules. The sample handling system includes a positive displacement pipette, suction-type pipette and/or air-displacement pipette. The sample handling system is controlled by the controller of the system 1000. In some situations, the sample handling system is swappable by another sample handling system, such as a sample handling system specialized for certain uses.

With continued reference to FIG. 10, each module includes a sample handling system for transferring samples to and from the stations. The sample handling system includes a positive displacement pipette, suction-type pipette and/or air-displacement pipette. The sample handling system is controlled by a controller in the module. Alternatively, the sample handling system is controlled by the controller of the system 1000.

Parallel Processing and Dynamic Resource Sharing

In another aspect of the invention, methods for processing a sample are provided. The methods are used to prepare a sample and/or perform one or more sample assays.

In some embodiments, a method for processing a sample comprises providing a system having plurality of modules as described herein. The modules of the system are configured to perform simultaneously (a) at least one sample preparation procedure selected from the group consisting of sample processing, centrifugation, magnetic separation and chemical processing, and/or (b) at least one type of assay selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and/or other types of assays or combinations thereof. Next, the system tests for the unavailability of resources or the presence of a malfunction of (a) the at least one sample preparation procedure or (b) the at least one type of assay. Upon detection of a malfunction within at least one module, the system uses another module of the system or another system in communication with the system to perform the at least one sample preparation procedure or the at least one type of assay.

In some embodiments, the system 700 of FIG. 7 is configured to allocate resource sharing to facilitate sample preparation, processing and testing. In an example, one of the modules 701-706 is configured to perform a first sample preparation procedure while another of the modules 701-706 is configured to perform a second sample preparation procedure that is different from the first sample preparation procedure. This enables the system 700 to process a first sample in the first module 701 while the system 700 processes a second sample or a portion of the first sample. This advantageously reduces or eliminates downtime (or dead time) among modules in cases in which processing routines in modules (or components within modules) require different periods of time to reach completion. Even if processing routines reach completion within the same period of time, in situations in which the periods do not overlap, parallel processing enables the system to optimize system resources in cases. This may be applicable in cases in which a module is put to use after another module or if one module has a start time that is different from that of another module.

The system 700 includes various devices and apparatuses for facilitating sample transfer, preparation and testing. The sample handling system 708 enables the transfer of a sample to and from each of the modules 701-706. The sample handling system 708 may enable a sample to be processed in one module while a portion of the sample or a different sample is transferred to or from another module.

In some situations, the system 700 is configured to detect each of the modules 701-706 and determine whether a bay configured to accept modules is empty or occupied by a module. In an embodiment, the system 700 is able to determine whether a bay of the system 700 is occupied by a general or multi-purpose module, such as a module configured to perform a plurality of tests, or a specialized module, such as a module configured to perform select tests. In another embodiment, the system 700 is able to determine whether a bay or module in the bay is defective or malfunctioning. The system may then use other modules to perform sample processing or testing.

A “multi-purpose module” is configured for a wide array of uses, such as sample preparation and processing. A multi-purpose module may be configured for at least 2, or 3, or 4, or 5, or 6, or 7, or 8, or 9, or 10, or 20, or 30, or 40, or 50 uses. A “special-use module” is a module that is configured for one or more select uses or a subset of uses, such as at most 1, or 2, or 3, or 4, or 5, or 6, or 7, or 8, or 9, or 10, or 20, or 30, or 50 uses. Such uses may include sample preparation, processing and/or testing (e.g., assay). A module may be a multi-purpose module or special-use module.

In some cases, a special-use module may include sample preparation procedures and/or tests not include in other modules. Alternatively, a special-use module includes a subset of sample preparation procedures and/or tests included in other modules.

In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, the module 706 may be a special-use module. Special uses may include, for example, one or more assays selected from cytometry, agglutination, microscopy and/or any other assay described elsewhere herein.

In an example, a module is configured to perform cytometry only. The module is configured for use by the system 700 to perform cytometry. The cytometry module may be configured to prepare and/or process a sample prior to performing cytometry on the sample.

In some embodiments, systems are provided that are configured to process multiple samples in parallel. The samples may be different samples or portions of the same sample (e.g., portions of a blood sample). Parallel processing enables the system to make use of system resources at times when such resources would otherwise not be used. In such fashion, the system is configured to minimize or eliminate dead time between processing routines, such as preparation and/or assay routines. In an example, the system assays (e.g., by way of cytometry) a first sample in a first module while the system centrifuges the same or a different sample in a different module.

In some situations, the system is configured to process a first sample in a first component of a first module while the system processes a second sample in a second component of the first module. The first sample and second sample may be portions of a larger quantity of a sample, such as portions of a blood sample, or different sample, such as a blood sample from a first subject and a blood sample from a second subject, or a urine sample from the first subject and a blood sample from the first subject. In an example, the system assays a first sample in the first module while the system centrifuges a second sample in the first module.

FIG. 11 shows a plurality of plots illustrating a parallel processing routine, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Each plot illustrates processing in an individual module as a function of time (abscissa, or “x axis”). In each module, a step increase with time corresponds to the start of processing and a step decrease with time corresponds to the termination (or completion) of processing. The top plot shows processing in a first module, the middle plot shows processing in a second module, and the bottom plot shows processing in a third module. The first, second and third modules are part of the same system (e.g., system 700 of FIG. 7). Alternatively, the first, second and/or third modules may be part of separate systems.

In the illustrated example, when the first module processes a first sample, the second module processes a second sample and the third module processes a third sample. The first and third modules start processing at the same time, but processing times are different. This may be the case if, for example, the first module processes a sample with the aid of an assay or preparation routine that is different from that of the third module (e.g., centrifugation in the first module and cytometry in the third module). Additionally, the first module takes twice as long to complete. In that time period, the third module processes a second sample.

The second module starts processing a sample at a time that is later than the start time of the first and third modules. This may be the case if, for example, the second module requires a period for completion of sample processing that is different from that of the first and third modules, or if the second module experiences a malfunction.

The modules may have the same dimensions (e.g., length, width, height) or different dimensions. In an example, a general or special-use module has a length, width and/or height that is different from that of another general or special-use module.

In some situations, systems and modules for processing biological samples are configured to communicate with other systems to facilitate sample processing (e.g., preparation, assaying). In an embodiment, a system communicates with another system by way of a wireless communication interface, such as, e.g., a wireless network router, Bluetooth, radiofrequency (RF), opto-electronic, or other wireless modes of communication. In another embodiment, a system communicates with another system by way of a wired communication, such as a wired network (e.g., the Internet or an intranet).

In some embodiments, point of service devices in a predetermined area communicate with one another to facilitate network connectivity, such as connectivity to the Internet or an intranet. In some cases, a plurality of point of service devices communicate with one another with the aid of an intranet, such as an intranet established by one of the plurality of point of service devices. This may permit a subset of a plurality of point of service devices to connect to a network without a direct (e.g., wired, wireless) network connection—the subset of the plurality of point of service devices connect to the network with the aid of the network connectivity of a point of service device connected to the network. With the aid of such shared connectivity, one point of service device may retrieve data (e.g., software, data files) without having to connect to a network. For instance, a first point of service device not connected to a wide-area network may retrieve a software update by forming a local-area connection or a peer-to-peer connection to a second point of service device. The first point of service device may then connect to the wide-area network (or cloud) with the aid of the network connectivity of the second point of service device. Alternatively, the first point of service device may retrieve a copy of the software update directly from the second point of service device.

In an example of shared connectivity, a first point of service devices connects (e.g., wireless connection) to a second point of service device. The second point of service device is connected to a network with the aid of a network interface of the second point of service device. The first point of service device may connect to the network through the network connection of the second point of service device.

Components

A device may comprise one or more components. One or more of these components may be module components, which may be provided to a module. One or more of these components are not module components, and may be provided to the device, but external to the module.

Examples of device components may include a fluid handling system, tips, vessels, microcard, assay units (which may be in the forms of tips or vessels), reagent units (which may be in the form of tips or vessels), dilution units (which may be in form of tips or vessels), wash units (which may in the form of tips or vessels), contamination reduction features, lysing features, filtration, centrifuge, temperature control, detector, housing/support, controller, display/user interface, power source, communication units, device tools, and/or device identifier.

One, two, or more of the device components may also be module components. In some embodiments, some components may be provided at both the device level and module level and/or the device and module may be the same. For example, a device may have its own power source, while a module may also have its own power source.

FIG. 2 provides a high level illustration of a device 200. The device may have a housing 240. In some embodiments, one or more components of the device may be contained within the device housing. For example, the device may include one or more support structure 220, which may have one or more module 230 a, 230 b. The device may also have a sample collection unit 210. A device may have a communication unit 280 capable of permitting the device to communicate with one or more external device 290. The device may also include a power unit 270. A device may have a display/user interface 260 which may be visible to an operator or user of the device. In some situations, the user interface 260 displays a user interface, such as graphical user interface (GUI), to a subject. The device may also have a controller 250 which may provide instructions to one or more component of the device.

In some embodiments, the display unit on the device may be detachable. In some embodiments, the display unit may also have a CPU, memory, graphics processor, communication unit, rechargeable battery and other peripherals to enable to operate it as a “tablet computer” or “slate computer” enabling it to communicate wirelessly to the device. In some embodiments, the detached display/tablet may be a shared source amongst all devices in one location or a group so one “tablet” can control, input and interact with 1, 2, 5, 10, 100, 1000 or more devices.

In some embodiments, the detached display may act as companion device for a healthcare professional to not only control the device, but also act as touch-enabled input device for capturing patient signatures, waivers and other authorizations and collaborating with other patients and healthcare professionals.

The housing may surround (or enclose) one or more components of the device.

The sample collection unit may be in fluid communication with one or more module. In some embodiments, the sample collection unit may be selectively in fluid communication with the one or more module. For example, the sample collection unit may be selectively brought into fluid communication with a module and/or brought out of fluid communication with the module. In some embodiments, the sample collection unit may be fluidically isolated from the module. A fluid handling system may assist with transporting a sample from a sample collection unit to a module. The fluid handling system may transport the fluid while the sample collection unit remains fluidically or hydraulically isolated from the module. Alternatively, the fluid handling system may permit the sample collection unit to be fluidically connected to the module.

The communication unit may be capable of communicating with an external device. Two-way communication may be provided between the communication unit and the external device.

The power unit may be an internal power source or may be connected to an external power source.

Further descriptions of a diagnostic device and one or more device components may be discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.

Fluid Handling System

A device may have a fluid handling system. As previously described, any discussion herein of fluid handling systems may apply to any sampling handling system or vice versa. In some embodiments, a fluid handling system may be contained within a device housing. The fluid handling system or portions of the fluid handling system may be contained within a module housing. The fluid handling system may permit the collection, delivery, processing and/or transport of a fluid, dissolution of dry reagents, mixing of liquid and/or dry reagents with a liquid, as well as collection, delivery, processing and/or transport of non-fluidic components, samples, or materials. The fluid may be a sample, a reagent, diluent, wash, dye, or any other fluid that may be used by the device. A fluid handled by the fluid handling system may include a homogenous fluid, or fluid with particles or solid components therein. A fluid handled by a fluid handling system may have at least a portion of fluid therein. The fluid handling system may be capable of handling dissolution of dry reagents, mixing of liquid and/or dry reagents in a liquid. “Fluids” can include, but not limited to, different liquids, emulsions, suspensions, etc. Different fluids may be handled using different fluid transfer devices (tips, capillaries, etc.). A fluid handling system, including without limitation a pipette, may also be used to transport vessels around the device. A fluid handling system may be capable of handling flowing material, including, but not limited to, a liquid or gaseous fluid, or any combination thereof. The fluid handling system may dispense and/or aspirate the fluid. The fluid handling system may dispense and/or aspirate a sample or other fluid, which may be a bodily fluid or any other type of fluid. The sample may include one or more particulate or solid matter floating within a fluid.

In one example, the fluid handling system may use a pipette or similar device. A fluid handling device may be part of the fluid handling system, and may be a pipette, syringe, capillary, or any other device. The fluid handling device may have portion with an interior surface and an exterior surface and an open end. The fluid handling system may also contain one or more pipettes, each of which has multiple orifices through which venting and/or fluid flows may happen simultaneously. In some instances, the portion with an interior surface and an exterior surface and open end may be a tip. The tip may or may not be removable from a pipette nozzle. The open end may collect a fluid. The fluid may be dispensed through the same open end. Alternatively, the fluid may be dispensed through another end.

A collected fluid may be selectively contained within the fluid handling device. The fluid may be dispensed from the fluid handling device when desired. For example, a pipette may selectively aspirate a fluid. The pipette may aspirate a selected amount of fluid. The pipette may be capable of actuating stirring mechanisms to mix the fluid within the tip or within a vessel. The pipette may incorporate tips or vessels creating continuous flow loops for mixing, including of materials or reagents that are in non-liquid form. A pipette tip may also facilitate mixture by metered delivery of multiple fluids simultaneously or in sequence, such as in 2-part substrate reactions. The fluid may be contained within a pipette tip, until it is desired to dispense through fluid from the pipette tip. In some embodiments, the entirety of the fluid within the fluid handling device may be dispensed. Alternatively, a portion of the fluid within the fluid handling device may be dispensed. A selected amount of the fluid within the fluid handling device may be dispensed or retained in a tip.

A fluid handling device may include one or more fluid handling orifice and one or more tip. For example, the fluid handling device may be a pipette with a pipette nozzle and a removable/separable pipette tip. The tip may be connected to the fluid handling orifice. The tip may be removable from the fluid handling orifice. Alternatively, the tip may be integrally formed on the fluid handling orifice or may be permanently affixed to the fluid handling orifice. When connected with the fluid handling orifice, the tip may form a fluid-tight seal. In some embodiments, a fluid handling orifice if capable of accepting a single tip. Alternatively, the fluid handling orifice may be configured to accept a plurality of tips simultaneously.

The fluid handling device may include one or more fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent units. For example, the fluid handling device may include one, two, or more pipette tips. The pipette tips may be configured to accept and confine a fluid. The tips may be fluidically isolated from or hydraulically independent of one another. The fluid contained within the tips may be fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent from one another and other fluids within the device. The fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent units may be movable relative to other portions of the device and/or one another. The fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent units may be individually movable.

A fluid handling device may include one, two, three, four or more types of mechanisms in order to dispense and/or aspirate a fluid. For example, the fluid handling device may include a positive displacement pipette and/or an air displacement pipette. The fluid handling device may include piezo-electric or acoustic dispensers and other types of dispensers. The fluid handling device may include, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more positive displacement pipettes. The fluid handling device may be capable of metering (aspirating) very small droplets of fluid from pipette nozzles/tips. The fluid handling device may include one or more, two or more, 4 or more, 8 or more, 12 or more, 16 or more, 20 or more, 24 or more, 30 or more, 50 or more, or 100 or more air displacement pipettes. In some embodiments, the same number of positive displacement pipettes and air displacement pipettes may be used. Alternatively, more air displacement pipettes may be provided than positive displacement pipettes, or vice versa. In some embodiments, one or more positive displacement pipette can be integrated into the “blade” style (or modular) pipetter format to save space and provide additional custom configurations.

In some embodiments, a fluid handling apparatus, such as a pipette (e.g., a positive displacement pipette, air displacement pipette, piezo-electric pipette, acoustic pipette, or other types of pipettes or fluid handling apparatuses) described elsewhere herein, may have the capability of picking up several different liquids with or without separation by air “plugs.” A fluid handling apparatus may have the capability of promoting/accelerating reaction with reagents attached to surface (e.g., pipette tip surfaces) by reciprocating movement of the enclosed liquid, thus breaking down an unstirred layer. The reciprocating movement may be driven pneumatically. The motion may be equivalent or comparable to orbital movement of microtiter places to accelerate binding reactions in ELISA assays.

A fluid handling device may comprise one or more base or support. The base and/or support may support one or more pipette head. A pipette head may comprise a pipette body and a pipette nozzle. The pipette nozzle may be configured to interface with and/or connect to a removable tip. The base and/or support may connect the one or more pipette heads of the fluid handling device to one another. The base and/or support may hold and/or carry the weight of the pipette heads. The base and/or support may permit the pipette heads to be moved together. One or more pipette head may extend from the base and/or support. In some embodiments, one or more positive displacement pipette and one or more air displacement pipette may share a base or support.

FIG. 12 shows an example of a fluid handling apparatus in a collapsed position, provided in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. The fluid handling apparatus may include one or more tips 4610, 4612, 4614. In some embodiments, a plurality of tip types may be provided. For example, a positive displacement tip 4610 may be provided, an air displacement nozzle tip 4612, and an air displacement mini-nozzle tip 4614 may be provided. A base 4620 may be provided, supporting one or more pipette head. A positive displacement motor 4630 may be coupled to a positive displacement pipette head 4635.

A fluid handling apparatus may include a manifold 4640. The manifold may include one or more vent ports 4642. A vent port may be fluidically connected to the fluid path of a pipette head. In some embodiments, each pipette head may have a vent port. In some instances, each air displacement pipette head may have a vent port. A tubing 4644 may be connected to the manifold. The tubing may optionally connect the manifold to a positive or negative pressure source, ambient air, or a reversible positive/negative pressure source.

A thermal spreader 4650 may be provided for a fluid handling apparatus. The thermal spreader may provide isothermal control. In some embodiments, the thermal spreader may be in thermal communication with a plurality of pipette heads. The thermal spreader may assist with equalizing temperature of the plurality of pipette heads.

A fluid handling apparatus may have one or more support portion. In some embodiments, the support portion may include an upper clamshell 4660 and a lower clamshell 4665.

FIG. 12A shows a collapsed fluid handling apparatus as previously described, in a fully retracted position. FIG. 12B shows a collapsed fluid handling apparatus, in a full z-drop position. In a full z-drop position, an entire lower clamshell 4665 may be lowered relative to the upper clamshell 4660. The lower clamshell may support the pipette heads and nozzles. The pipette heads and nozzles may move with the lower clamshell. The lower clamshell may include a front portion 4667 which supports the pipette heads, and a rear portion 4668 which supports an actuation mechanism and switching mechanisms.

FIG. 13 shows an example of a fluid handling apparatus in an extended position in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The fluid handling apparatus may include one or more tips 4710, 4712, 4714. A positive displacement tip 4710 may be provided, an air displacement nozzle tip 4712, and an air displacement mini-nozzle tip 4714 may be provided. The fluid handling apparatus may also include one or more nozzles 4720, 4722, 4724. A positive displacement nozzle 4720, an air displacement nozzle 4722, and an air displacement mini-nozzle 4724 may be provided. The nozzles may interface with their respective tips. In some instances, the nozzles may connect to their respective tips via press-fit or any other interface mechanism. One or more tip ejector 4732, 4734 may be provided. For example, a regular tip ejector 4732 may be provided for removing an air displacement tip 4712. One or more mini-ejector 4734 may be provided for removing an air displacement mini-tip 4714. The ejectors may form collars. The ejectors may be designed to push the tips off. The ejectors may be located beneath the nozzles.

The fluid handling apparatus may be in a full z-drop position with a lower clamshell 4765 lowered relative to an upper clamshell 4760. Furthermore, a z-clutch-bar 4770 may be provided which may engage any or all of the pipettes for individualized and/or combined nozzle drop (i.e. nozzle extension). FIG. 13 shows an example where all nozzles are dropped. However, the nozzles may be individually selectable to determine which nozzles to drop. The nozzles may drop in response to a single actuation mechanism, such as a motor. A switching mechanism may determine which pipettes are engaged with the bar. The clutch bar 4770 illustrated shows the nozzles in a dropped position, with the clutch bar lowered. A z-motor encoder 4780 may be provided. The encoder may permit the tracking of the location of the motor movement.

An x-axis slider 4790 may be provided in accordance with some embodiments. The x-axis slider may permit the fluid handling apparatus to move laterally. In some embodiments, the fluid handling apparatus may slide along a track.

FIG. 14 shows a front view of a fluid handling apparatus. A protector plate 4810 may be provided in some embodiments. The protector plate may protect portions of the pipette head. The protector plate may protect a fluid path of the pipette head. In one example, the protector plate may be provided for rigid tubing, connecting pipette cavities to nozzles. The protector plate may be connected to a thermal spreader or may be integrally incorporated with a thermal spreader.

As previously described, multiple types of pipettes and/or tips may be provided. One or more positive displacement pipette and/or one or more air displacement pipettes may be used. In some instances, the protector plate may only cover the air displacement pipettes. Alternatively, the protector place may cover the positive displacement pipette only, or may cover both.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a fluid handling apparatus. A fluid handling apparatus may include a pipette head, which may include a nozzle head 4902, which may be configured to connect to a tip 4904. The tip may be removably connected to the pipette nozzle.

One or more pipette nozzle may be supported by a nozzle-drop shaft 4920. A z-motor 4922 may be provided, which when actuated, may cause one or more nozzle to drop (e.g., extend). One or more solenoid 4924, or other switching mechanism may be provided to selectively connect the z-motor with the nozzle-drop shaft. When the solenoid is in an “on” position, actuation of the z-motor may cause the nozzle-drop shaft to be lowered or raised. When the solenoid is in an “off” position, actuation of the z-motor does not cause movement of the nozzle-drop shaft.

Tubing 4910 may be provided through the pipette head, and terminating at the pipette nozzle. The tubing may have a portion with rigid inner tubing 4910 a, and rigid outer tubing 4910 b. In some instances, the rigid inner tubing may be movable while the rigid outer tubing is stationary. In other embodiments, the rigid inner tubing may be movable or stationary, and the rigid outer tubing may be movable or stationary. In some embodiments, the inner tubing may be movable relative to the outer tubing. The overall length of the tubing may be variable.

A plunger 4930 may be provided within the fluid handling apparatus. The plunger may provide metering within a pipette cavity. An extension of the pipette cavity 4935 may be provided. In some instances, the extension of the pipette cavity may be in fluid communication with the tubing 4910. Alternatively, the tubing and the pipette cavity are not in fluid communication. In some embodiments, the pipette cavity and the tubing are parallel to one another. In other embodiments, the pipette cavity and the tubing are substantially non-parallel to one another. They may be substantially perpendicular to one another. The tubing may have a substantially vertical orientation while the pipette cavity may have a substantially horizontal orientation, or vice versa. In some embodiments, a pipette and tip may act in a push/pull fashion, such as in a multi-lumen tubing arrangement, to aspirate and dispense simultaneously or sequentially.

One or more valves 4937 may be provided for controlling vent port access to the pipettes. In some instances, a valve may correspond to an associated pipette. A valve may determine whether a vent port is open or closed. A valve may determine the degree to which a vent port is open. The vent port may be in communication with a pressure source, such as a positive or negative pressure source. The vent port may be in communication with ambient air. The vent port may provide access to a tubing 4910 from a manifold.

A clutch-bar 4940 for individual metering may be provided. The clutch bar may be connected to a motor that may be used to drive the metering of the fluid. A guide shaft 4942 may optionally be provided. One or more solenoid 4945 or other switching mechanism may be provided in communication with the clutch-bar. The solenoid or other switching mechanism may be provided to selectively connect the motor with the plunger 4930. When the solenoid is in an “on” position, actuation of the metering motor may cause the plunger to be engaged and move to dispense and/or aspirate a fluid. When the solenoid is in an “off” position, actuation of the metering motor does not cause movement of the plunger. A plurality of plungers may be provided, each being associated with its respective solenoid, which may selectively be in an on or off position. Thus, when a motor is actuated, only the plungers associated with “on” solenoids may respond.

FIG. 16 shows another side view of a fluid handling apparatus. The view includes a view of the motor 5010 used for metering. The motor may be used for metering fluid within the air displacement pipettes. An encoder 5020 for the motor is also illustrated. The encoder may permit the tracking of the motor movement. This ensures that the plunger position is known at all times.

FIG. 17 shows a rear perspective view of a fluid handling apparatus. The fluid handling apparatus may include a pump 5110. The pump may be in fluid communication with a pipette cavity. In some instances, the pump may be brought into or out of fluid communication with the pipette cavity. The pump may be in fluid communication with a manifold, and/or vent port. The pump may pump (or effect the movement of) liquid or air.

The pump may provide positive pressure and/or negative pressure. The pump may be a reversible pump that may be capable of providing both positive and negative pressure. The pump may be actuated in pipettes containing pistons to permit the pipette to aspirate or dispense any volume of liquid, without limitation by the positive displacement that a given piston size is capable of generating. This factor, in combination with large volume tips, could permit a small pipette to aspirate or dispense large volumes of liquid for certain applications. The pump may permit the pipette to function without motor or piston, while still providing fine control through pulse-width modulation.

A fluid handling apparatus may also include an accumulator 5120 with one or more valves that may connect to a pressure source or ambient conditions. The accumulator may optionally connect to the reversible pump, which may provide positive or negative pressure.

A multi-headed fluid handling apparatus, such as a multi-headed pipette may be capable of picking up multiple tips/vessels on several pipette nozzles at the same time. For example, multiple pipette nozzles may extend to pick up multiple tips/vessels. The multiple pipette nozzles may be individually controllable to determine which tips/vessels are picked up. Multiple tips/vessels may be picked up simultaneously. In some instances, all pipette nozzles may pick up pipette tips/vessels substantially simultaneously.

In some embodiments, pipettes do not include plungers. A sample (e.g., fluid) may be moved in or with the aid of the pipette using positive and/or negative pressure. In some situations, positive or negative pressure is provided with the aid of a gas or vacuum, respectively. Vacuum may be provided using a vacuum system having one or more vacuum pumps. Positive pressure may be provided with the aid of pressurized air. Air may be pressurized using a compressor.

Dimensions/Ranges

One or more dimensions (e.g., length, width, or height) of a pipette may be less than or equal to about 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, 40 mm, 45 mm, 50 mm, 55 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 90 mm, 100 mm, 112 mm, 12 cm, 15 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 30 cm, or any other dimension described elsewhere herein. One or more dimensions may be the same, or may vary. For example, the height of a pipette may not exceed 1 mm, 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 5.5 cm, 6 cm, 6.5 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, 10 cm, 11 cm, 12 cm, 13 cm, 15 cm, 17 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, or 30 cm.

In some embodiments, a pipette may have a total volume of 1 cm³ or less, 5 cm³ or less, 8 cm³ or less, 10 cm³ or less, 15 cm³ or less, 20 cm³ or less, 25 cm³ or less, 30 cm³ or less, 35 cm³ or less, 40 cm³ or less, 50 cm³ or less, 60 cm³ or less, 70 cm³ or less, 80 cm³ or less, 90 cm³ or less, 100 cm³ or less, 120 cm³ or less, 150 cm³ or less, 200 cm³ or less, 250 cm³ or less, 300 cm³ or less, or 500 cm³ or less.

The pipette may have one or more pipette head. In some embodiments, an individual pipette head of the pipette may be able to dispense any volume of fluid. For example, the individual pipette head may be capable of dispensing and/or aspirating fluids of no more than and/or equal to about 10 mL, 5 mL, 3 mL, 2 mL, 1 mL, 0.7 mL, 0.5 mL, 0.4 mL, 0.3 mL, 250 μL, 200 μL, 175 μL, 160 μL, 150 μL, 140 μL, 130 μL, 120 μL, 110 μL, 100 μL, 70 μL, 50 μL, 30 μL, 20 μL, 10 μL, 7 μL, 5 μL, 3 μL, 1 μL, 500 nL, 300 nL, 100 nL, 50 nL, 10 nL, 5 nL, 1 nL, 500 pL, 100 pL, 50 pL, 10 pL, 5 pL, 1 pL, or any other volume described elsewhere herein. The pipette may be capable of dispensing no more than, and/or equal to any fluid volume, such as those as described herein, while having any dimension, such as those described elsewhere herein. In one example, a fluid handling apparatus may have a height, width, and/or length that does not exceed 20 cm and a pipette head which may be capable of aspirating and/or dispensing at least 150 μL.

The fluid handling system may be able to dispense and/or aspirate fluid with great precision and/or accuracy. For example, coefficient of variation of the fluid handling system may be less than or equal to 20%, 15%, 12%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1.5%, 1%, 0.7%, 0.5%, 0.4%, 0.3%, 0.2%, 0.1%, 0.07%, 0.05%, 0.01%, 0.005%, or 0.001%. A fluid handling apparatus may be capable of dispensing and/or aspirating a fluid while functioning with a coefficient of variation value as described herein. The fluid handling system may be able to control the volume of fluid dispensed to within 5 mL, 3 mL, 2 mL, 1 mL, 0.7 mL, 0.5 mL, 0.3 mL, 0.1 mL, 70 μL, 50 μL, 30 μL, 20 μL, 10 μL, 7 μL, 5 μL, 3 μL, 1 μL, 500 nL, 300 nL, 100 nL, 50 nL, 10 nL, 5 nL, 1 nL, 500 pL, 100 pL, 50 pL, 10 pL, 5 pL, or 1 pL. For example, the fluid handling apparatus may be capable of dispensing and/or aspirating a minimum increment of no more than any of the volumes described herein.

The fluid handling system may be capable of operating with any of the coefficient of variations described herein and/or controlling the volume of fluid dispensed to any value described herein while having one or more other feature described (e.g., having any of the dimensions described herein or being capable of dispensing and/or aspirating any volume described herein). For example, a fluid handling apparatus may be capable of dispensing and/or aspirating 1 μL-3 mL of fluid while functioning with a coefficient of variation of 4% or less.

A fluid handling apparatus may include one pipette head or a plurality of pipette heads. In some embodiments, the plurality of pipette heads may include a first pipette head and a second pipette head. The first and second pipette heads may be capable of and/or configured for dispensing and/or aspirating the same amount of fluid. Alternatively, the first and second pipette heads may be capable of and/or configured for dispensing different amounts of fluid. For example, the first pipette head may be configured to dispense and/or aspirate up to a first volume of fluid, and the second pipette head may be configured to dispense and/or aspirate up to a second volume of fluid, wherein the first and second volumes are different or the same. In one example, the first volume may be about 1 mL, while the second volume may be about 250 μL.

In another example, the fluid handling apparatus may include a plurality of pipette heads, wherein a first pipette head may comprise a first pipette nozzle configured to connect with a first removable tip, and a second pipette head may comprise a second pipette nozzle configured to connect with a second removable tip. The first removable tip may be configured to hold up to a first volume of fluid, and the second removable tip may be configured to hold up to a second volume of fluid. The first and second volumes may be the same or may be different. The first and second volumes may have any value as described elsewhere herein. For example, the first volume may be about 1 mL, while the second volume may be about 250 μL.

A plurality of pipette heads may be provided for a fluid handling apparatus. The plurality of pipette heads may be any distance apart. In some embodiments, the fluid handling apparatus may be less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, or 50 mm. The distance between the pipette heads may be from center to center of the pipette heads. The distance between the pipette heads from center to center may be the pitch of the pipette heads.

The pipette heads may share a support structure. In some embodiments, the support structure may be a movable support structure. One, two or more pipette heads may be movable along the support structure so that the lateral distance between the pipette heads may be variable. In some instances, the pitch of the pipette heads may be variable to encompass or be limited by one or more of the dimensions previously described. In one example, the pipette heads may be slidable along the support so that the distances from center to center of the pipette heads may vary. Each of the pipette heads may be variable so that they are the same distance apart, or may be individually variable so that they may be at various distances apart. A lateral distance proportion between the pipette heads may remain the same as pipette head positions vary, or may change. Pipettes, blades, or nozzles may change their relative position (move in or out, expand or shrink) to achieve different pitches as needed and may access resources in multiple planes at one time.

In some embodiments, the form factors of pipettes (e.g., positive displacement pipette, suction-type pipette, air displacement pipette) may be suitable for so-called “mini” pipettes. The form factors in such cases may be reduced and optimized for space through horizontal or clamshell configurations. Systems or devices may include one or a plurality of mini pipettes. The mini pipettes may be modular and removable from supporting structures having the mini pipettes.

In some embodiments, a mini pipette is configured to handle a sample of 1 uL, 0.9 uL, 0.8 uL, 0.7 uL, 0.6 uL, 0.5 uL, 0.4 uL, 0.3 uL, 0.2 uL, 0.1 uL, 10 nL, 1 nL.

In some embodiments, a mini pipette is provided that enables macro-scale protocol and/or processing of various chemistries at a point of service location as opposed to microfluidic-restricted processing, which may not replicate lab protocols. In some situations, the protocol and/or processing is selected from, without limitation: centrifugation, separation, precipitation, denaturation, extraction, coacervation, flocculation, chromatography, column based processing, elutions, dilutions, mixing, incubations, cell lysis, fixation of cells, heating, cooling, distribution of sample, separate processing or assay or detection systems, modularity, efficiency of sample utilization, sedimentation, concentration of analyte on solid phase, immunoassay, nucleic acid amplification, nuclear magnetic resonance, microscopy, spectrometry, calorimetry, sequencing, pathological oversight and analyses, and culture.

Pipette Configuration

A fluid handling apparatus may be a pipette. In some embodiments, a fluid handling apparatus may comprise one or more pipette head. A fluid handling apparatus may include a supporting body, and extending therefrom, the one or more pipette heads. As previously described, the supporting body may support the weight of the one or more pipette heads. The supporting body may contain mechanisms for moving the pipette heads independently or together in one dimension or multiple dimensions. The supporting body may permit the pipette heads to move together. The supporting body may also be flexible or “snake-like” and/or robotic in nature, permitting the pipette heads a wide range of movement in multiple (or infinite) directional planes. This range of movement may permit the pipettes to serve as robotic end effectors for the device with one or more fluid handling or non-fluid handling functions. The supporting body may connect the pipette heads to one another. The shared supporting body may or may not be integrally formed with the pipette heads. The supporting body may or may not also support an actuation mechanism. The supporting body may or may not be capable of supporting the weight of actuation mechanism that may be operably connected to one or more pipette head.

A pipette head may comprise a pipette nozzle configured to connect with a removable tip. The pipette head may also include a pipette body. The pipette nozzle may be coaxial with the pipette body. The pipette body may support the pipette nozzle. The pipette nozzle may include an opening. The pipette head may also include a fluid path therein. The fluid path may or may not be contained within the pipette body.

The fluid path may pass through the pipette body. The fluid path may have a given length. The fluid path may terminate at the pipette nozzle. The fluid path may be within an inner tubing. The inner tubing may be rigid or flexible.

The pipette nozzle may connect with the removable tip in any manner. For example, the pipette nozzle may connect with the removable tip to form a fluid-tight seal. The removable tip may be friction-fit with the pipette nozzle. The tip may interface with the pipette nozzle along an outer surface of the pipette nozzle, inner surface of the pipette nozzle, or within a groove or intermediate portion of the pipette nozzle. Alternatively, the pipette nozzle may interface with the tip along the outer surface of the tip, inner surface of the tip, or within a groove or intermediate portion of the tip.

In some embodiments, a plunger may be provided within a pipette head. The plunger may permit the dispensing and/or aspiration of fluid. The plunger may be movable within the pipette head. The pipette may be capable of loading the desired plunger from a selection of plungers, that are either stored in the pipette or picked up from a storage area outside the pipette. The plunger may be movable along a fluid path. The plunger may remain in the same orientation, or may have varying orientations. In alternate embodiments, a transducer-driven diaphragm may be provided which may affect a fluid to be dispensed and/or aspirated through the tip. Alternate dispensing and/or aspiration mechanisms may be used, which may include a positive and/or negative pressure source that may be coupled to a fluid path.

In some embodiments, the tip of the pipette head may have a length. The direction of tip may be along the length of the tip. In some embodiments, the fluid handling apparatus may include a motor having a rotor and stator. The rotor may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The axis of rotation may have any orientation with respect to the tip. For example, the axis of rotation may be substantially parallel to the tip. Alternatively, the axis of rotation may be substantially non-parallel to the tip. In some instances, the axis of rotation may be substantially perpendicular to the tip, or any other angle with respect to the tip including but not limited to 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees, or 75 degrees. In one example, the axis of rotation may be horizontal, while the removable tip may be aligned vertically. Alternatively, the axis of rotation may be vertical while the removable tip is aligned horizontally. This configuration may provide a “bent” pipette configuration where the tip is bent relative to the motor. The motor may be useful for metering fluid within the tip. In some embodiments, the motor may permit the movement of one or more plunger within a pipette head.

In some embodiments, the fluid handling apparatus may include a motor that may be capable of permitting the movement of a plurality of plungers that are not substantially parallel to the removable tip. Alternatively, the movement of the plurality of plungers may be substantially parallel to the removable tip. In some instances, the movement of the plurality of plungers may be substantially perpendicular to the removable tip, or any other angle, including but not limited to those mentioned elsewhere herein. In one example, the plunger may be capable of moving in a horizontal direction, while the removable tip is aligned vertically. Alternatively, the plunger may be capable of moving in a vertical direction while the removable tip is aligned horizontally.

A fluid path may terminate at a pipette nozzle. In some instances, another terminus of the fluid path may be provided at the plunger. In some embodiments, the fluid path may be bent or curved. A first portion of a fluid path may have a different orientation than a second portion of the fluid path. The first and second portions may be substantially perpendicular to one another. The angles of the first and second portions may be fixed relative to one another, or may be variable.

Actuation

A fluid handling apparatus may include an actuation mechanism. In some embodiments, a single actuation mechanism may be provided for the fluid handling apparatus. Alternatively, a plurality of actuation mechanisms may be provided. In some instances, only a single actuation mechanism may be provided per particular use (e.g., tip removal, plunger control, switch control). Alternatively, multiple actuation mechanisms may be provided for a particular use. In one example, an actuation mechanism may be a motor. The motor may include a rotor and stator. The rotor may be capable of rotating about an axis of rotation.

A single actuation mechanism, such as a motor, may be useful for individualized dispensing and/or aspiration. A fluid handling apparatus may include a plurality of pipette heads. A plurality of plungers may be provided, wherein at least one plunger may be within a pipette head and configurable to be movable within the pipette head. In some instances, each of the pipette heads may have one or more plungers therein. The plurality of plungers may be independently movable. In some instances, the plungers may move along a fluid path within the pipette head. The actuation mechanism may be operably connected to the plungers. The actuation mechanism may permit the independent movement of the plurality of plungers. The movement of such plungers may optionally cause the dispensing and/or aspiration of fluid. A single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of a plurality of plungers. In some instances, a single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of all of the plungers within said plurality.

A single actuation mechanism, such as a motor, may be useful for individualized removal of a tip from pipette nozzle. A fluid handling apparatus may include a plurality of pipette heads. A plurality of tip removal mechanisms may be provided, wherein at least one tip removal mechanism is configured to remove an individually selected tip from the pipette nozzle. The tip removal mechanism may be configured to be movable with respect to the pipette nozzle to effect said removal. The tip removal mechanisms may be independently movable. Alternatively, the tip removal mechanisms need not move, but may be independently controllable to permit the removal of the tips. The actuation mechanism may be operably connected to the tip removal mechanisms. The actuation mechanism may permit the independent movement of the plurality of tip removal mechanisms. A single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of a plurality of tip removal mechanisms. In some instances, a single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of all of the tip removal mechanisms within said plurality.

In some embodiments, a tip removal mechanism may be within a pipette head. An internal tip removal mechanism may be configured to be movable within the pipette head. For example, a tip removal mechanism may be a plunger. In other embodiments, the tip removal mechanism may be external to the pipette head. For example, the tip removal mechanism may be a collar wrapping around at least a portion of a pipette head. The collar may contact a portion of the pipette nozzle, pipette body and/or pipette tip. Another example of an external removal mechanism may be a stripping plate. A tip removal mechanism may or may not contact the tip when causing the tip to be removed from the pipette.

A single actuation mechanism, such as a motor, may be useful for individualized retraction and/or extension of a pipette nozzle. A fluid handling apparatus may include a plurality of pipette heads. A pipette head may include a pipette nozzle which may or may not be movable with respect to a support body. A plurality of pipette nozzles may be independently movable. The actuation mechanism may be operably connected to the pipette nozzles or other portions of a pipette head that may permit the retraction and/or extension of a pipette nozzle. The actuation mechanism may permit the independent movement of the plurality of pipette nozzles. A single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of a plurality of pipette nozzles. In some instances, a single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of all of the pipette nozzles within said plurality.

In some embodiments, a tip may be connected to a pipette nozzle based on the positions of the pipette nozzles. For example, a pipette nozzle may be extended and brought down to contact a tip. The pipette nozzle and tip may be press-fit to one another. If selected pipette nozzles are independently controllable to be in an extended position, the tips connected to the apparatus may be controllable. For example, one or more pipette nozzle may be selected to be extended. Tips may be connected to the extended pipette nozzle. Thus, a single actuation mechanism may permit the independent selection and connection/pick-up of tips.

Alternatively, a single motor or other actuation mechanism may control the independent movement of a single plunger, tip removal mechanism, and/or pipette nozzle. In some instances, a plurality of actuation mechanisms may be provided to control the movement of a plurality of plungers, tip removal mechanisms, and/or pipette nozzles.

A fluid handling apparatus may include one or more switches. An individual switch may have an on position and an off position, wherein the on position may permit an action or movement in response to movement by an actuation mechanism, and wherein the off position does not permit an action or movement in response to movement by the actuation mechanism. An on position of a switch may permit an operable connection between the actuation mechanism, and another portion of the fluid handling apparatus, such as a plunger, tip removal mechanism, and/or pipette nozzle movement mechanism. An off position of a switch may not permit an operable connection between the actuation mechanism, and another portion of the fluid handling apparatus, such as a plunger, tip removal mechanism, and/or pipette nozzle movement mechanism. For example, an off position may permit the actuation mechanism to move, but no response is provided by the selected other portion of the fluid handling mechanism. In one example, when a switch is in an on position, one or more plunger associated with the individual switch may move in response to a movement by a motor, and when the switch is in an off position, one or more plunger associated with the individual switch is not permitted to move in response to movement by the motor. In another example, when a switch is in an on position, one or more tip removal mechanism associated with the individual switch may cause a tip to be removed in response to movement by a motor, and when the switch is in an off position, one or more tip removal mechanism may not cause a tip to be removed in response to movement by the motor. Similarly, when a switch is in an on position, one or more pipette nozzle associated with the individual switch may extend and/or retract in response to a movement by a motor, and when the switch is in an off position, one or more pipette nozzle associated with the individual switch is not permitted to extend and/or retract in response to movement by the motor.

A switch may be a binary switch that may have only an on position and an off position. One, two or more actuations may occur when a switch is in an on position and may not occur when a switch is in an off position. In alternate embodiments, a switch may have multiple positions (e.g., three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more positions). A switch may be completely off, completely on, or partially on. In some embodiments, a switch may have different degrees of depression. Different positions of the switch may or may not permit different combinations of actuation. In one example, a switch in a zero position may not permit actuation of a plunger and of a tip removal mechanism, a switch in a one position may permit actuation of a plunger while not permitting actuation of a tip removal mechanism, a switch in a two position may not permit actuation of a plunger while permitting actuation of a tip removal mechanism, and a switch in a three position may permit actuation of a plunger and permit actuation of a tip removal mechanism, when a motor is actuated. In some embodiments, a switch may include a control pin which may extend varying degrees to represent different positions of the switch.

In some embodiments, the switch may be a solenoid. The solenoid may have an on position and/or an off position. In some embodiments, the solenoid may have an extended component for an on position, and a retracted component for an off position. A single solenoid may be provided for each pipette head. For example, a single solenoid may or may not permit the movement of an individual plunger associated with the solenoid, a tip removal mechanism associated with the solenoid, or a pipette nozzle associated with the solenoid.

Multi-Use Transport

A fluid handling apparatus may be useful to dispense, aspirate, and/or transfer one or more fluids. The fluid handling apparatus may also be useful for one or more additional function, including non-fluid handling functions. The connection of a component or tip may permit the fluid handling device to function as a robot capable of performing one or more non-fluid handling functions. Alternatively, the pipette itself may be employed to perform one or more such non-fluid handling functions by means of one or more actuation mechanisms. Such non-fluid handling functions may include the ability to transfer power to move components, tools or other objects, such as a cuvette body, or cartridges or test samples, or any component thereof. When combined with a flexible supporting body (described herein) or other configuration allowing a wide range of movement, the apparatus may be able to perform such functions in multiple dimensions within the device, or even outside it.

For instance, the fluid handling apparatus may be useful to transfer a component from one location within the device, to another. Components that may be transferred may be sample processing components. A sample processing component may be a sample preparation unit or component thereof, an assay unit component thereof, and/or a detection unit or component thereof. Examples of components may include but are not limited to tips, vessels, support structures, micro cards, sensors, temperature control devices, image capture units, optics, cytometers, centrifuges, or any other components described elsewhere herein.

The fluid handling apparatus may pick up a sample processing component. The fluid handling apparatus may move the sample processing component to a different location of the device. The fluid handling apparatus may drop off the sample processing component at its new location within the device.

The fluid handling apparatus may be capable of transferring sample processing components within a module. The fluid handling apparatus may or may not be confined to the module. Alternatively, the fluid handling apparatus may be capable of transferring sample processing components between modules, and need not be confined to a single module. In some instances, the fluid handling apparatus may be capable of transferring sample processing components within a rack and/or may be confined to a rack. Alternatively, the fluid handling apparatus may be capable of transferring sample processing components between racks, and need not confined to a single rack.

A fluid handling apparatus may pick up and move a sample processing component using various mechanisms. For example, the sample processing component may be picked up using a press-fit between one or more of the pipette heads and a feature of the sample processing component. For example, a pipette nozzle may interface with a tip through a press-fit arrangement. The same press-fit arrangement may be used to permit a pipette nozzle and a feature of the sample processing component to engage. Alternatively, the press-fit interface may occur between any other portion of the fluid handling apparatus and the sample processing component. In some instances, the press-fit feature of the sample processing component may be protruding to encounter the fluid handling apparatus. The press-fit feature of the sample processing component may have a shape complementary to the press-fit portion of the fluid handling apparatus.

Another example of an interface mechanism may be a pressure-driven mechanism, such as a suction mechanism. The sample processing component may be picked up using a suction provided by one, two or more of the pipette heads. The suction may be provided by one or more pipette head may be provided by the internal actuation of a plunger, or a negative pressure source coupled to the fluid path. The pipette heads providing suction may contact any portion of the sample processing component, or may contact a specific feature of the sample processing component. The feature of the sample processing component may or may not be protruding to encounter the fluid handling apparatus.

An additional example of an interface mechanism may be a magnetic mechanism. A fluid handling apparatus may include a magnet that may be turned on to interface with a magnet of the sample processing component. The magnet may be turned off when it is desired to drop off the sample processing component. Additional mechanisms known in the art including but not limited to adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, screws, or lock and groove configurations may be used.

In some embodiments, a component removal mechanism may be provided to assist with dropping off the sample processing component. Alternatively, no separate component removal mechanism may be required. In some instances, a tip removal mechanism may be used as a component removal mechanism. In another example, a plunger may be used as a component removal mechanism. Alternatively, separate component removal mechanisms may be provided. A component removal mechanism may use the principles of gravity, friction, pressure, temperature, viscosity, magnetism, or any other principles. A large quantity of tips can be stored within the device that are available as a shared resource to the pipette or robot to be utilized when required. Tips may be stored in a hopper, cartridge, or bandoleer to be used when required. Alternatively, tips may be stored in nested fashion to conserve space within the device. In another embodiment, a module can be configured to provide extra tips or any other resources needed as a shared module in the device.

The fluid handling apparatus may interface with the sample processing component at any number of interfaces. For example, the fluid handling apparatus may interface with the sample processing component at one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or more interfaces. Each of the interfaces may be the same kind of interface, or may be any combination of various interfaces (e.g., press fit, suction, magnetic, etc.). The number and/or type of interface may depend on the sample processing component. The fluid handling apparatus may be configured to interface with a sample processing component with one type of interface, or may have multiple types of interface. The fluid handling apparatus may be configured to pick up and/or transfer a single type of sample processing component or may be capable of picking up and transferring multiple types of sample processing components. The fluid handling apparatus, assisted by the application of various tips, may facilitate or perform various sample processing tasks for or with the sample processing component, including physical and chemical processing steps.

FIG. 18 provides an example of a fluid handling apparatus used to carry a sample processing component. The sample processing component may be a cuvette carrier 5210. The cuvette carrier may have one or more interface feature 5212 that may be configured to interface with the fluid handling device. In some embodiments, the interface feature may contact a pipette nozzle 5220 of the fluid handling device. A plurality of interface features may contact a plurality of pipette nozzles.

In some embodiments, a tip removal mechanism 5230 may be useful for removing the cuvette carrier from the pipette nozzle. A plurality of tip removal mechanisms may be actuated simultaneously or in sequence.

FIG. 19 shows a side view of a fluid handling apparatus useful for carrying a sample processing component. A cuvette carrier 5310 may interface with the fluid handling apparatus. For example, nozzles 5320 that may engage with the cuvette carrier. The nozzles may have the same shape and/or configuration. Alternatively, the nozzles may have varying configurations. The cuvette carrier may have one or more complementary shape 5330, which may be configured to accept the nozzles. The nozzles may be engaged with the carrier through friction and/or vacuum assist. The nozzles may be for air displacement pipettes.

The cuvette carrier may interface with one or more cuvette 5340, or other types of vessels. The cuvette may have a configuration as shown in FIGS. 27A-B.

The fluid handling apparatus may also interface with a series of connected vessels. One such configuration is shown in FIG. 26, where the fluid handling apparatus may interface with pick-up ports 6920 to pick up the strip of vessels.

In some embodiments, a mini vessel is provided that may interface with a pipette for various processing and analytical functions. The various processing and analytics functions in some cases can be performed at a point of service location.

FIG. 21 provides an example of an expand/contract elastomer deflection tip pickup. A tip 6400 may be picked up by a pipette nozzle 6410. A portion of the tip may fit within a portion of the nozzle. For example, a portion of the external surface of the tip may contact an internal surface of the nozzle. Alternatively, a portion of the nozzle may fit within a portion of the tip. For example, a portion of the internal surface of the tip may contact an external surface of the nozzle.

The nozzle may include a rigid material 6420 and an elastomeric material 6430. The rigid material may be a rigid block or solid material. The tip may be surrounded by the elastomeric material. The rigid block may lie over the elastomeric material surrounding the tip.

An actuator may provide a force 6440 that may compress the rigid block 6420. The rigid block may be pressed toward the tip. Pressing the rigid block may compress the elastomer 6430, causing a bulging effect that may shrink the internal chamber of the elastomer. Shrinking the internal chamber may cause the elastomer to securely grip the tip 6400. Compressing the elastomer in a first direction (e.g., toward the tip) may cause the elastomer to expand in a second direction (e.g., perpendicular toward the tip), which may result in a compression of the elastomer around the tip.

In order to drop the tip off, the force 6440 may be removed, which may cause the rigid block to move away from the tip, and may release the elastomer from its compressed state.

FIG. 22 provides an example of a vacuum gripper tip pickup. A tip 6500 may be provided, having a large head 6502. The large head may have a large flat surface area.

The tip may engage with a nozzle 6510. The nozzle may have one or more tunnel 6520 therein. In some instances, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more tunnels may be provided through the nozzle. The tunnels may be spaced radially equally apart, or at varying intervals. The tunnels may have the same or differing diameters. A first end of a tunnel may be coupled to a pressure source, while a second end of the tunnel may be facing the head 6502 of the tip. The pressure source may be a negative pressure source. Tunnels may be connected to a lower pressure region, creating a suction force, which may act on the flat head of the tip. The suction force may provide a pulling force that may act upwards to secure the tip to the nozzle.

In some embodiments, an O-ring 6530 may be provided. The O-ring or other elastomeric member may be located between a nozzle and the head of a tip. One or more groove or shelf may be provided in the nozzle and/or tip to accommodate the O-ring. The O-ring may permit a seal to be formed between the nozzle and tip. This may provide fluid tight seal between a fluidic path 6540 within the nozzle and a fluid path 6550 within the tip.

In order to drop off the tip from the nozzle, the tunnels may be disconnected from the negative suction pressure source. Alternatively, the pressure source itself may be turned off.

Such nozzle-tip connections and interfaces are provided by way of example only. Additional tip-nozzle interfaces, and/or variations or combinations of those described herein may be implemented. In some embodiments, one or more components of a pipette may be configured to be exchangeable. Such configurations may allow for future versions of components of a pipette (e.g. nozzles) with different functionality to be added to or exchanged on the pipette.

Modular Fluid Handling

In some embodiments, one or more of the fluid handling apparatus configurations described elsewhere herein may be implemented in a modular fashion. For example, one or more pipette head may be provided in a modular format. In some embodiments, a single pipette module may have a single pipette head and/or nozzle thereon. Alternatively, a single pipette module may have two, three, four, five, six or more pipette heads and/or nozzles thereon. Pipette modules may be stacked next to each other to form a multi-head configuration. Individual pipette modules may be removable, replaceable, and/or swappable. Individual pipette modules may each have the same configuration or may have different configurations. In some instances, different pipette modules may be swapped out for others to provide different functionality. Pipette modules described herein may also be referred to as “pipette cards,” “cards,” or “pipette units.”

FIG. 23 provides an example of a pipette module in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The pipette module may include a pipette body 6600 mounted on a support 6610. The support may include or more guide rod 6612, track, screw, or similar feature. The pipette body may be able to slide along the guide rod or similar feature. Any description herein of guide rod may apply to any other feature that may guide the motion of a pipette body. In some instances, the pipette body may be able to travel upwards and/or downwards relative to the support along the guide rod

In some instances, the support may also include a lead screw 6614. The lead screw may interact with an actuation interface 6602 of the pipette body. The actuation interface may contact the lead screw, so that as the lead screw may turn, the actuation interface may engage with the teeth of the screw and may cause the pipette body to move up or down correspondingly. In some embodiments, the actuation interface may be a spring-loaded flexure. The spring loaded flexure may be biased against the screw, thereby providing a strong flexible contact with the screw. The spring loaded flexture may be configured for precise kinematic constraint. The screw may turn in response to an actuation mechanism. In some embodiments, the actuation interface may be connected to the pipette piston by means of a magnet, offering sufficient degrees of freedom to limit wear and extend the life of the mechanism. In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism may be a motor, which may include any type of motor described elsewhere herein. The motor may be directly connected to the screw or may be connected via a coupling. The actuation mechanism may move in response to one or more instructions from a controller. The controller may be external to the pipette module, or may be provided locally on the pipette module.

The pipette body 6600 may include a chassis. The chassis may optionally be a shuttle clamshell chassis. A nozzle 6620 may be connected to the pipette body. The nozzle may extend from the pipette body. In some embodiments, the nozzle may extend downward from the pipette body. The nozzle may have a fixed position relative to the pipette body. Alternatively, the nozzle may extend and/or retract from the pipette body. The nozzle may have a fluid pathway therein. The fluid pathway may be connected to a pipetting piston. Any descriptions of plungers, pressure sources, or fluid pathways described elsewhere herein may be used in a modular pipette. In some embodiments, the pipette body may support a motor 6630, geartrain, valve 6632, lead screw, magnetic piston mounting block, piston cavity block and valve mount 6634, and/or other components. One or more of the components described herein may be provided within a chassis of the pipette body.

The pipette body may also include a guide rail 6640. The guide rail may permit a portion of the pipette to move relative to the pipette body. In one example, the pipette nozzle may move up or down relative to the pipette body. The pipette nozzle may be connected to an internal assembly that may move along the guide rail. In some embodiments, the guide rail 6640 may be configured to interface with another mechanism that may prevent the pipette body from rotating. The guide rail may be constrained by an exterior chassis, which may constrain rotation about the guide rod.

FIG. 24A shows an example of modular pipette having a retracted shuttle in a full dispense position. A pipette body 6700 may be at an upward position relative to a support 6710. The pipette body may include an actuation interface 6702 that may engage with a lead screw 6714. When a shuttle is retracted, the actuation interface may be at the top of the lead screw. The mount may have a guide rod 6712 which may assist with guiding the pipette body relative to the mount.

FIG. 24B shows an example of modular pipette having a dropped shuttle in a full dispense position. A pipette body 6700 may be at a downward position relative to a support 6710. The pipette body may include an actuation interface 6702 that may engage with a lead screw 6714. When a shuttle is dropped, the actuation interface may be at the bottom of the lead screw. The mount may have a guide rod 6712 which may assist with guiding the pipette body relative to the mount.

The mount may be fully retracted, fully dropped, or have any position therebetween. The screw may turn to cause the pipette body to rise or lower relative to the mount. The screw may turn in a first direction to cause the pipette body to rise, and may turn in a second direction to cause the pipette body to drop. The screw may stop turning at any point in order to provide a position of the pipette body. The pipette body may drop with the nozzle, which may allow for greater complexity with less relative motion.

A plurality of pipette modules may be provided in a fluid handling system. The pipette modules may have a blade configuration. A thin blade form factor may be provided so that any number of blades may be stacked side by side in a modular fashion to create a pipetting system where each nozzle can work or move independently. A single blade may be composed of multiple tools (nozzle, end effectors, etc.) that can be chosen for specific operations, thereby minimizing the space required for the overall assembly. In some embodiments, a blade may also function as a freezer, refrigerator, humidifier, and/or incubator for samples and/or reagents held in vessels and/or cartridges.

The plurality of pipette modules may or may not be located adjacent to one another. In some embodiments, the pipette modules may be narrow and may be stacked next to one another, to form a multi-head pipette configuration. In some embodiments, a pipette module may have a width of less than or equal to 1 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 50 μm, 100 μm, 300 μm, 500 μm, 750 μm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, or 5 cm. Any number of pipette modules may be positioned together. For example, one or more, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, seven or more, eight or more, nine or more, ten or more, twelve or more, fifteen or more, twenty or more, twenty-five or more, thirty or more, fifty or more, seventy or more, one hundred or more pipette modules may be positioned together. Additional pipette modules may be positioned separately or together and optionally may have varying nozzles with different dimensions and capabilities.

The separate pipette modules may be positioned adjacent to one another and may or may not contact one another. The pipette modules positioned together may or may not share a common support. The pipette bodies of the pipette modules may be able to move independently of one another up and down relative to the pipette mounts. The nozzles of the pipette modules may be able to extend and/or retract independently relative to the other pipette modules. In some embodiments, a pipette comprising multiple pipette modules on a common support may be configured such that any one of the pipette modules is capable of contacting the same locations within a device as may be contacted by one or more of the other pipette modules. This configuration may be desirable, for example, as a precaution for in the event that a pipette module becomes non-functional, and it becomes desirable for another pipette module of the same common support to take over for the non-functional pipette.

The various pipette modules may have the same or different configurations. The pipette nozzles of the pipette nozzles may be the same or may vary. The pipette modules may be capable of interfacing with multiple types of tips or with specialized tips. The pipette modules may have the same or varying degrees of sensitivity or coefficient of variation. The pipette modules may have the same or different mechanisms for controlling the aspiration and/or dispensing of a fluid (e.g., air displacement, positive displacement, internal plunger, vertical plunger, horizontal plunger, pressure source). The pipette modules may have the same or different mechanisms for picking up or removing a tip (e.g., press-fit, screw-in, smart material, elastomeric material, click-fit, or any other interface described elsewhere herein or otherwise).

A modular pipette may have motion that may be broken down into a plurality of functions. For example motion may be broken into (1) motion of a piston and piston block in a (z) direction to aspirate and dispense fluid, and (2) motion of a shuttle assembly in a (z) direction to allow the pipette module to engage with objects at various heights and provide clearance when moving in (xy) directions. In some embodiments, the (z) direction may be a vertical direction, and (xy) directions may be horizontal directions. The motion of the piston and piston block may be parallel to the motion of the shuttle assembly. Alternatively, the motion of the piston and piston block may be non-parallel and/or perpendicular. In other embodiments, the motion of the piston and piston block and/or the motion of the shuttle assembly may be horizontal or may have any other orientation.

Piston motion may be achieved in a very compact, flat package via the use of a gear train and lead screw stacked horizontally, for example as illustrated in FIG. 23. A constant force spring, compression spring, or wave spring may be used to remove backlash in this assembly and may therefore provide significantly improved accuracy/precision for aspiration and dispense. The system may use exact or very precise kinematic constraint with various springs in order to permit the assembly to operate precisely even with inaccuracies in the position or size of each individual component.

All components which interact directly with the tips, nozzle, or piston may be mounted to a single “shuttle assembly” and this entire assembly may move as one piece. The shuttle assembly may include a pipette body 6600 as shown in FIG. 23. The various components may move with the shuttle assembly, which may be distinguishable from traditional pipettes where only the nozzle moves. This design may allow for simple, rigid connection of these components to the critical piston/nozzle area without the need for complex linkages or relative motion between several parts. It may also provide an expandable “platform” upon which to integrate future components and functionalities.

The piston may be housed in a cavity. The cavity where the piston is housed may be cut from a single piece of metal and any valves or nozzles may be mounted directly to this block. This may simplify the mounting of components that may be directly involved in the pipetting action and may provide a reliable air tight seal with little unused volume. This may contribute to lower coefficients of variation for pipetting. Any of the coefficient of variation values described elsewhere herein may be achieved by the pipette.

The shuttle assembly may be intentionally underconstrained in rotation about a shuttle guide rod. This may assist with tolerating misalignment in the device as the shuttle may have sufficient freedom to pivot side to side (e.g., xy plane) into whatever position is needed to engage with tips or other interface objects.

The components in the shuttle assembly may be encased in a two piece “clamshell.” Some, more than half, or all of the components of the shuttle assembly may be encased within the clamshell. The clamshell can include two symmetric halves to the shuttle chassis that may hold the components in place. It can also include a single half with deep pockets for component mounting and a flat second half that completes the process of securing components in place. The portions of the clamshell may or may not be symmetric, or may or may not be the same thickness. These designs may allow the assembly to include a large number of small components without a complicated mounting method for each component. The clamshell design may also allow for an assembly method where components can be simply dropped into their correct position and then the second half of the clamshell may be put in place and fastened, thus locking everything in place. Additionally, this geometry lends itself to an approach which integrates PCB routing boards directly into the clamshell chassis components in order to facilitate wiring for components inside the device.

Any description of clamshell may apply to a multi-part housing or casing of the shuttle assembly. A housing of the shuttle assembly may be formed from one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more parts that may come together to form the housing. A clamshell may be an example of a two-part shuttle housing. The portions of a clamshell may or may not be connected by a hinge. The portions of the clamshell may be separable from one another.

In some embodiments, each nozzle/tip/piston/shuttle assembly may be combined into a single module (or blade) that is very thin and flat. This may allow stacking of several blades at a set distance from one another to create an arbitrarily large pipette. A desired number of blades may be stacked together as needed, which may permit the pipette to grow or shrink as needed. This modular approach can provide great flexibility in the mechanical design since it breaks up functionality and components into interchangeable parts. It may also enable modular components in this design to be rapidly adapted for and integrated into new pipettor systems; thus the same basic modular components can be capable of completing a large variety of tasks with different requirements. The modularization of functionality may also enable more efficient device protocols due to fast and independent nozzle and piston control on board each pipette blade. This design may provide advantages in servicing devices as defective blades can be swapped individually, rather than necessitating an entirely new pipettor. One or more of the blades may be independently movable and/or removable relative to the other places.

FIG. 24C shows yet another embodiment wherein a plurality of individual pipette units 6720 are provided. FIG. 24C is a front view showing that each of the individual pipette units 6720 may be individually movable relative to any other pipette unit in the pipette chassis 6722. Some of the individual pipette units 6724 are configured to be larger volume units and use larger head units 6726. Each of the pipette units 6720 and 6724 can be moved up and down individually as indicated by arrow 6728. The system may optionally have imaging devices 6730 and 6732 to view activity at the pipette tips. This can be used as quality control to image whether a tip is properly seated on the pipette nozzle, whether sufficient volume of sample is in the tip, whether there is undesired bubbles or other defects in the samples. In the present embodiment, the plurality of imaging devices 6730 and 6732 are sufficient to image all of the tips of the pipette nozzle.

FIG. 24D shows a side view of one embodiment an individual pipette unit 6720. FIG. 24D shows that this pipette unit 6720 may have a force-providing unit 6740 such as but not limited to a motor, a piezoelectric drive unit, or the like. Although direct drive is not excluded, the present embodiment uses a transmission such as but not limited to pulleys, linkages, or gears 6744 and 6746 are used to turn a lead screw 6748 that in turn moves the piston slide mechanism 6750 which can move up and down as indicated by arrow 6752. This in turn moves a piston 6754 that drives, using direct or air displacement, the aspiration or dispensing of fluid in tips (not shown) coupled to the nozzle portion 6756. A tip ejector slide 6760 is actuated when the lower extending portion of the piston slide mechanism 6750 pushes down on and moves the tip ejector slide 6760 down as indicated by arrow 6762. After the tip is ejected, the slide 6760 may return to its original position.

As indicated by arrow 6770, the entire pipette unit 6720 can translate up and down in a first frame of reference. Components within the pipette unit 6720 can also move up and down in a second frame of reference. The aspirating and dispensing of liquid is independent of the movement of the unit 6720. The present embodiment also shows that there is no tubing extending to an external source. All fluid is kept separate from the internals of the pipette unit 6720 so that the units can be used without having to be cleaned or washed between uses. Some embodiments may have hydrophobic coatings, seals, filters, filter paper, frits, septa, or other fluid sealing items to prevent fluid and aerosolized particles from entering the hardware, non-disposable portions of the pipettes.

In some embodiments, fully modular pipette unit 6720 for various fluid volumes and tip types can be provided with a common drive train design. In one embodiment, nozzle and all fluid components (including the piston/pump) are all located in a self-contained module which can be built and validated outside the rest of the assembly. The common platform allows for future versions of nozzles with different functionality to be added to the system through either new tips that can engage the heads or by replacing the module pipette unit 6720 with an updated pipette unit, so long as the interfaces both mechanical and electrical remain compatible with what is on the pipette chassis.

Pipette units may be optimized to pipette different volumes of fluid. Pipette units may have different volume capacities. In some embodiments, the volume capacity of a pipette unit is related to the volume of the piston block or piston, the nozzle of the pipette unit, and/or tips which interface with the nozzle. In some embodiments, a pipette unit may have a pipetting capacity as low as 0.1 microliter or as high as 20 mililiters, or any volume between. In some embodiments, a pipette unit may be optimized for pipetting a range of volumes, including, for example, 0.1-2 microliters; 0.1-10 microliters; 1-10 microliters; 1-50 microliters; 2-20 microliters; 1-100 microliters; 10-200 microliters; 20-200 microliters; or 100-1000 microliters.

Sensor Probes

In some embodiments, a pipette, pipette unit or any other component of a device described herein may contain a probe. The probe may include one or more sensors, e.g. for motion, pressure, temperature, images, etc. Integration of a probe into one or more components of a device may aid in monitoring one or more conditions or events within a device. For example, a touch probe may be integrated with a pipette, such that when a pipette is moved it may sense its location (e.g. through pressure, motion, or imaging). This may increase the precision and accuracy and lower the COV of movement of the pipette. In another example, a probe on a pipette may obtain information regarding the strength of a seal between a pipette nozzle and a pipette tip. In another example, a probe may contain a temperature sensor. If the probe is attached, for example, to a centrifuge, cartridge, or pipette, the probe may obtain information regarding the temperature of the area in the vicinity of the centrifuge, cartridge, or pipette. A probe may be in communication with a controller of a module, device, or system, such that information obtained by the probe may be sent to the controller. The controller may use this information in order to calibrate or optimize device performance. For example, if a probe senses that a tip is not properly sealed on a pipette nozzle, the controller may direct the tip to be ejected from the pipette nozzle, and for a new pipette tip to be loaded onto the nozzle. In some embodiments, a probe may have a stand-alone structure, and not be integrated with another component of a device.

Vessels/Tips

A system may comprise one, two or more vessels and/or tips, or may contain a device that may comprise one, two or more vessels and/or tips. One or more module of a device may comprise one, two or more vessels and/or tips.

A vessel may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. A vessel may have a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end and second ends may be opposing one another. The first end or second end may be open. In some embodiments, a vessel may have an open first end and a closed second end. In some embodiments, the vessel may have one or more additional ends or protruding portions which may be open or closed. In some embodiments, a vessel may be used to contain a substrate for an assay or reaction. In other embodiments, the substrate itself may function as a sort of vessel, obviating the need for a separate vessel.

The vessel may have any cross-sectional shape. For example, the vessel may have a circular cross-sectional shape, elliptical cross-sectional shape, triangular cross-sectional shape, square cross-sectional shape, rectangular cross-sectional shape, trapezoidal cross-sectional shape, pentagonal cross-sectional shape, hexagonal cross-sectional shape, or octagonal cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape may remain the same throughout the length of the vessel, or may vary.

The vessel may have any cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter, width, or length). For example, the cross-sectional dimension may be less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, or 3 cm. The cross-sectional dimension may refer to an inner dimension or an outer dimension of the vessel. The cross-sectional dimension may remain the same throughout the length of the vessel or may vary. For example, an open first end may have a greater cross-sectional dimension than a closed second end, or vice versa.

The vessel may have any height (wherein height may be a dimension in a direction orthogonal to a cross-sectional dimension). For example, the height may be less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, or 10 cm. In some embodiments, the height may be measured between the first and second ends of the vessel.

The interior of the vessel may have a volume of about 1,000 μL or less, 500 μL or less, 250 μL or less, 200 μL or less, 175 μL or less, 150 μL or less, 100 μL or less, 80 μL or less, 70 μL or less, 60 μL or less, 50 μL or less, 30 μL or less, 20 μL or less, 15 μL or less, 10 μL or less, 8 μL or less, 5 μL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 nL or less, 300 nL or less, 100 nL or less, 50 nL or less, 10 nL or less, 1 nL or less, 500 pL or less, 250 pL or less, 100 pL or less, 50 pL or less, 10 pL or less, 5 pL or less, or 1 pL or less.

One or more walls of the vessel may have the same thickness or varying thicknesses along the height of the vessel. In some instances, the thickness of the wall may be less than, and/or equal to about 1 μm, 3 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 50 μm, 75 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 900 μm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, or 3 mm.

One or more vessels may be provided which may have the same shape and/or size, or varying shapes and/or sizes.

A vessel may be formed of a single integral piece. Alternatively, the vessel may be formed from two or more vessel pieces. The two or more vessel pieces may be permanently attached to one another, or may be selectively separable from one another. A vessel may include a body and a cap. Alternatively, some vessels may only include a body.

A vessel may be configured to contain and/or confine a sample. A vessel may be configured to engage with a fluid handling system. Any fluid handling system known in the art, such as a pipette, or embodiments described elsewhere herein may be used. In some embodiments, a vessel may be configured to engage with a tip that may be connected to a fluid handling device, such as a pipette. A vessel may be configured to accept at least a portion of a tip within the vessel interior. A tip may be inserted at least partway into the vessel. In some embodiments, the tip may be configured to enter the vessel all the way to the bottom of the vessel. Alternatively, the tip may be configured to be inserted no more than part way into the vessel.

Vessel material can be of different types, depending on the properties required by the respective processes. Materials may include but not limited to: polymers, semiconductor materials, metals, organic molecules, ceramics, composites, laminates, etc. The material may be rigid or flexible, or able to transition between the two. Vessel materials may include, but not limited to polystyrene, polycarbonate, glass, metal, acrylics, semiconductor materials, etc., and may include one of several types of coatings. Vessel materials may be permeable to selective species by introducing functionalized pores on the vessel walls. These allow certain molecular species to pass through the material. Vessel material can also be coated to prevent absorption of substances such as water. Other coatings might be used to achieve specific optical characteristics such as transmission, reflectance, fluorescence, etc.

Vessel can be of different geometries including, but not limited to, rectangular, cylindrical, hexagonal, and may include, without limitation, attributes such as perforations, permeable membranes, particulates or gels depending on the application. Vessels may be comprised of microfluidic channels or electrical circuits, optionally on a silicon substrate.

Vessels may also be active and perform a set of tasks. Vessels may contain active transporters to pump fluids/suspensions through membrane/septal barriers.

Vessels may be designed to have specific optical properties—transparency, opacity, fluorescence, or other properties related to any part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Vessels may be designed to act as locally heated reactors by designing the material to absorb strongly in the infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Vessel walls might be designed to respond to different electromagnetic radiation—either by absorption, scattering, interference, etc. Combination of optical characteristics and embedded sensors can result in vessels being able to act as self-contained analyzers—e.g., photosensitive material on vessel walls, with embedded sensors will transform a vessel into a spectrophotometer, capable of measuring changes in optical signals.

In some embodiments, vessels can be thought of as intelligent containers which can change their properties by “sampling” the surrounding fluids. Vessels could allow for preferential ion transfer between units, similar to cells, signaled by electrical and/or chemical triggers. They could also influence containment of the fluid inside it in response to external and/or internal stimuli. Response to stimuli may also result in change of size/shape of the vessel. Vessels might be adaptive in response to external or internal stimuli, and might enable reflex testing by modification of assay dynamic range, signal strength, etc.

Vessels can also be embedded with different sensors or have different sensors embedded in them, such as environmental (temperature, humidity, etc.), optical, acoustic, or electro-magnetic sensors. Vessels can be mounted with tiny wireless cameras to instantly transmit information regarding its contents, or alternatively, a process which happens in it. Alternatively, the vessel can comprise another type of detector or detectors, which transmit data wirelessly to a central processing unit.

Vessels can be designed for a range of different volumes ranging from a few microliters to milliliters. Handling fluids across different length and time scales involves manipulating and/or utilizing various forces—hydrodynamic, inertial, gravity, surface tension, electromagnetic, etc. Vessels may be designed to exploit certain forces as opposed to others in order to manipulate fluids in a specific way. Examples include use surface tension forces in capillaries to transfer fluids. Operations such as mixing and separation require different strategies depending on volume—vessels may be designed to specifically take advantage of certain forces. Mixing, in particular is important while handling small volumes, since inertial forces are absent. Novel mixing strategies such as using magnetic particles with external forcing, shear-induced mixing, etc. might be adopted to achieve efficient mixing.

Vessels offer flexibility over microfluidic chips due to their inherent flexibility in handling both small and large volumes of fluids. Intelligent design of these vessels allows us to handle a larger range of volumes/sizes compared to microfluidic devices. In one embodiment, vessels were designed with tapered bottoms. This taper is in at least the interior surface of the vessel. It should be understood that the exterior may be tapered, squared, or otherwise shaped so long as the interior is tapered. These features reduce sample/liquid overages that are needed. Namely, small volumes can be mixed in the vessel and extracted without wasting/leaving behind residual liquid. This design allows one to work with both small volumes and larger volumes of liquids. In addition, vessels can take advantage of forces which microfluidic devices cannot—thereby offering more flexibility in processing. Vessels may also offer the ability to dynamically change scales, by switching to different sizes. In the “smart vessel” concept, the same vessel can change capacity and other physical attributes to take advantage of different forces for processing fluids. This actuation can be programmed, and externally actuated, or initiated by changes in fluid inside.

The functionality of a vessel can go beyond fluid containment—different vessels can communicate via surface features or external actuation and engage in transport of fluids/species across vessel boundaries. The vessel thus becomes a vehicle for fluid containment, processing, and transport—similar to cells. Vessels can fuse in response to external actuation and/or changes in internal fluid composition. In this embodiment, vessels can be viewed as functional units, capable of executing on or several specialized function—separations such as isoelectric focusing, dialysis, etc. Vessels can be used to sample certain fluids and generate information regarding transformations, end points, etc.

Vessels can act as self-contained analytical units, with in-built detectors and information exchange mechanisms, through sensors and transmitters embedded inside vessel walls. Vessel walls can be made with traditional and/or organic semiconductor materials. Vessels can be integrated with other sensors/actuators, and interface with other vessels. A vessel, in this embodiment, can be viewed as a system capable of containment, processing, measurement, and communication. In some embodiments, a vessel may contain a chip for electric manipulation of very small volumes of liquid.

Vessels can also have sample extraction, collection, and fluid transfer functionalities. In this embodiment, a vessel would act like a pipette being stored in the cartridge, and able to transfer fluid to a specific location. Examples include a viral transport medium for nucleic acid amplification assays, where the vessel is used to both collect and transport the viral transport medium. Another example would be a cuvette coming out of the device in order to collect a fingerstick sample.

Vessels may be designed to contain/process various sample types including, but not limited to blood, urine, feces, etc. Different sample types might require changes in vessel characteristics—materials, shape, size, etc. In some embodiments, vessels perform sample collection, processing, and analysis of contained sample.

A vessel or subvessel may be sealed with or otherwise contain reagents inside it. A pipette may act to release the reagent from the vessel when needed for a chemical reaction or other process, such as by breaking the seal that contains the reagent. The vessels may be composed of glass or other material. A reagent that would otherwise be absorbed into traditional polymer tips or degrade when exposed to the environment may necessitate such compartmentalization or sealing in a vessel.

In some embodiments, vessels provided herein may have rounded edges to minimize fluid loss during fluid handling.

A vessel (e.g. a tip) may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. A vessel (e.g. a tip) may have a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end and the second ends may be opposing one another. The first end and/or second end may be open. A vessel (e.g. a tip) may include a passageway connecting the first and second ends. In some embodiments, a vessel (e.g. a tip) may include one or more additional ends or protrusions. For example, the vessel (e.g. a tip) may have a third end, fourth end, or fifth end. In some embodiments, the one or more additional ends may be open or closed, or any combination thereof.

The vessel (e.g. a tip) may have any cross-sectional shape. For example, the vessel may have a circular cross-sectional shape, elliptical cross-sectional shape, triangular cross-sectional shape, square cross-sectional shape, rectangular cross-sectional shape, trapezoidal cross-sectional shape, pentagonal cross-sectional shape, hexagonal cross-sectional shape, or octagonal cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape may remain the same throughout the length of the vessel (e.g. a tip), or may vary.

The vessel (e.g. a tip) may have any cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter, width, or length). For example, the cross-sectional dimension may be less than or equal to about 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, or 3 cm. The cross-sectional dimension may refer to an inner dimension or an outer dimension of the vessel (e.g. a tip). The cross-sectional dimension may remain the same throughout the length of the vessel (e.g. a tip) or may vary. For example, an open first end may have a greater cross-sectional dimension than an open second end, or vice versa. The cross-sectional dimension ratio of the first end to the second end may be less than, and/or equal to about 100:1, 50:1, 20:1, 10:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50 or 1:100. In some embodiments, the change in the cross-sectional dimension may vary at different rates.

The vessel (e.g. a tip) may have any height (wherein height may be a dimension in a direction orthogonal to a cross-sectional dimension). For example, the height may be less than, or equal to about 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 1 cm, 1.2 cm, 1.5 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm, or 10 cm. In some embodiments, the height may be measured between the first and second ends of the tip.

The interior of the vessel (e.g. a tip) may have a volume of about 1,000 μL or less, 500 μL or less, 250 μL or less, 200 μL or less, 175 μL or less, 150 μL or less, 100 μL or less, 80 μL or less, 70 μL or less, 60 μL or less, 50 μL or less, 30 μL or less, 20 μL or less, 15 μL or less, 10 μL or less, 8 μL or less, 5 μL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 nL or less, 300 nL or less, 100 nL or less, 50 nL or less, 10 nL or less, 1 nL or less, 500 pL or less, 250 pL or less, 100 pL or less, 50 pL or less, 10 pL or less, 5 pL or less, or 1 pL or less.

One or more walls of the vessel (e.g. a tip) may have the same thickness or varying thicknesses along the height of the vessel (e.g. a tip). In some instances, the thickness of the wall may be less than and/or equal to about 1 μm, 3 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 30 μm, 50 μm, 75 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 900 μm, 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, or 3 mm.

One or more vessels (e.g. a tip) may be provided which may have the same shape and/or size, or varying shapes and/or sizes. Any of the various embodiments described herein may have one or more features of the vessels and/or tips as described elsewhere herein.

A tip may be formed of a single integral piece. Alternatively, the tip may be formed from two or more tip pieces. The two or more tip pieces may be permanently attached to one another, or may be selectively separable from one another. Chemistries or sensors may also be physically integrated into a tip, effectively enabling a complete laboratory test on a vessel (e.g. a tip). Vessels (e.g. a tip) may each individually serve different preparatory, assay, or detection functions. Vessels (e.g. a tip) may serve multiple functions or all functions within a single vessel or tip.

A vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of a material that may be rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of material that is conductive, insulating, or that incorporates embedded materials/chemicals/etc. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of the same material or of different materials.

In some embodiments, the vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of a transparent, translucent, or opaque material.

The inside surface of a tip can be coated with reactants that are released into fluids; such reactants can be plated, lyophilized, etc. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of a material that may permit a detection unit to detect one or more signals relating to a sample or other fluid within the vessel (e.g. a tip). For example, the vessel (e.g. a tip) may be formed of a material that may permit one or more electromagnetic wavelength to pass therethrough. Examples of such electromagnetic wavelengths may include visible light, IR, far-IR, UV, or any other wavelength along the electromagnetic spectrum. The material may permit a selected wavelength or range(s) of wavelengths to pass through. Examples of wavelengths are provided elsewhere herein. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may be transparent to permit optical detection of the sample or other fluid contained therein.

The vessel (e.g. a tip) may form a wave guide. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may permit light to pass through perpendicularly. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may permit light to pass through along the length of the vessel. The vessel (e.g. a tip) may permit light to light to enter and/or travel at any angle. In some embodiments, the vessel (e.g. a tip) may permit light to enter and/or travel at selected angles or ranges of angles. The vessel and/or tip may form one or more optic that may focus, collimate, and/or disperse light.

The material may be selected to be impermeable to one or more fluids. For example, the material may be impermeable to the sample, and/or reagents. The material may be selectively permeable. For example, the material may permit the passage of air or other selected fluids.

Examples of materials used to form the vessel and/or tip may include functionalized glass, Si, Ge, GaAs, GaP, SiO₂, SiN₄, modified silicon, or any one of a wide variety of gels or polymers such as (poly)tetrafluoroethylene, (poly)vinylidenedifluoride, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), ABS, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, an assay unit may comprise polystyrene. The materials may include any form of plastic, or acrylic. The materials may be silicon-based. Other appropriate materials may be used in accordance with the present invention. Any of the materials described here, such as those applying to tips and/or vessels may be used to form an assay unit. A transparent reaction site may be advantageous. In addition, in the case where there is an optically transmissive window permitting light to reach an optical detector, the surface may be advantageously opaque and/or preferentially light scattering.

Vessels and/or tips may have the ability to sense the liquid level therein. For example, vessels and/or tips may have capacitive sensors or pressure gauges. The vessels may employ any other technique known in the art for detecting a fluid level within a container. The vessels and/or tips may be able to sense the liquid level to a high degree of precision. For example, the vessel and/or tip may be able to detect a liquid level to within about 1 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 50 nm, 100 nm, 150 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 750 nm, 1 μm, 3 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 50 μm, 75 μm, 100 μm, 150 μm, 200 μm, 300μm, 400 μm, 500μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 900 μm, or 1 mm.

A tip may assist with the dispensing and/or aspiration of a sample. A tip may be configured to selectively contain and/or confine a sample. A tip may be configured to engage with a fluid handling device.

Any fluid handling system known in the art, such as a pipette, or embodiments described elsewhere herein may be used. The tip may be connected to the fluid handling device to form a fluid-tight seal. In some embodiments, the tip may be inserted into a vessel. The tip may be inserted at least partway into the vessel.

The tip may include a surface shape or feature that may determine how far the tip can be inserted into the vessel.

Vessels and/or tips may be independently formed and may be separate from one another. Vessels and/or tips may be independently movable relative to one another. Alternatively, two or more vessels and/or tips may be connected to one another. They may share a common support. For example, the two or more vessels and/or tips may be cut from a same material—e.g., cut into a common substrate. In another example, two or more vessels and/or tips may be directly linked adjacent to one another so that they directly contact one another. In another example, one or more linking component may link the two or more vessels and/or tips together. Examples of linking components may include bars, strips, chains, loops, springs, sheets, or blocks. Linked vessels and/or tips may form a strip, array, curve, circle, honeycombs, staggered rows, or any other configuration. The vessels and/or connections may be formed of an optically transparent, translucent, and/or opaque material. In some instances, the material may prevent light from entering a space within the vessels and/or cavities. Any discussion herein of vessels and/or tips may apply to cuvettes and vice versa.

Cuvettes may be a type of vessel.

FIG. 26 provides an example of a vessel strip. The vessel strip provides an example of a plurality of vessels that may be commonly linked. The vessel strip 6900 may have one or more cavities 6910. The cavities may accept a sample, fluid or other substance directly therein, or may accept a vessel and/or tip that may be configured to confine or accept a sample, fluid, or other substance therein. The cavities may form a row, array, or any other arrangement as described elsewhere herein. The cavities may be connected to one another via the vessel strip body.

The vessel strip may include one or more pick-up interface 6920. The pick-up interface may engage with a sample handling apparatus, such as a fluid handling apparatus. The pick-up interface may interface with one or more pipette nozzle. Any of the interface configurations described elsewhere herein may be used.

For example, a pipette nozzle may be press-fit into the pick-up interface. Alternatively, the pick-up interface may interface with one or more other component of the pipette.

The vessel strip may be useful for colorimetric analysis or cytometry. The vessel strip may be useful for any other analysis described elsewhere herein.

FIGS. 27A and 27B provide another example of a cuvette 7000. The cuvette provides an example of a plurality of channels that may be commonly linked. The cuvette carrier may have a body formed from one, two or more pieces. In one example, a cuvette may have a top body portion 7002 a, and a bottom body portion 7002 b. The top body portion may have one or more surface feature thereon, such as a cavity, channel, groove, passageway, hole, depression, or any other surface feature. The bottom body portion need not include any surface features. The bottom body portion may be a solid portion without cavities. The top and bottom body portion may come together to form a cuvette body. The top and bottom body portion may have the same footprint, or may have differing footprints. In some instances, the top body portion may be thicker than the bottom body portion. Alternatively, the bottom body portion may be thicker or equal in thickness to the top body portion.

The cuvette 7000 may have one or more cavities 7004. The cavities may accept a sample, fluid or other substance directly therein. The cavities may form a row, array, or any other arrangement as described elsewhere herein. The cavities may be connected to one another via the cuvette body. In some instances, the bottom of a cavity may be formed by a bottom body portion 7002 b. The walls of a cavity may be formed by a top body portion 7002 a.

The cuvette may also include one or more fluidically connected cavities 7006. The cavities may accept a sample, fluid or other substance directly therein, or may accept a vessel and/or tip (e.g., cuvette) that may be configured to confine or accept a sample, fluid, or other substance therein. The cavities may form a row, array, or any other arrangement as described elsewhere herein. The cavities may be fluidically connected to one another via a passageway 7008 through the cuvette body.

The passageway 7008 may connect two cavities, three cavities, four cavities, five cavities, six cavities, seven cavities, eight cavities, or more. In some embodiments, a plurality of passageways may be provided. In some instances, a portion of the passageway may be formed by a top body portion 7002 a, and a portion of the passageway may be formed by a bottom body portion 7002 b. The passageway may be oriented in a direction that is not parallel (e.g., is parallel) to an orientation of a cavity 7006 to which it connects. For example, the passageway may be horizontally oriented while a cavity may be vertically oriented. The passageway may optionally permit a fluid to flow from one fluidically connected cavity to another.

The cuvette may include one or more pick-up interface. Optionally, a pick-up interface may be one or more cavity, 7004, 7006 of the cuvette. The pick-up interface may engage with a sample handling apparatus, such as a fluid handling apparatus. The pick-up interface may interface with one or more pipette nozzle. Any of the interface configurations described elsewhere herein may be used. For example, a pipette nozzle may be press-fit into the pick-up interface, or the nozzle may interact magnetically with the pick-up interface. Alternatively, the pick-up interface may interface with one or more other component of the pipette.

Optionally, the cuvette may include embedded magnet(s) or magnetic feature(s) that allow for a sample handling apparatus to pickup and/or dropoff the cuvette based on magnetic forces. In some embodiments, a sample handling apparatus may directly transfer a cuvette from a cartridge to a cytometry station. In some embodiments, a module-level sample handling system may transfer a cuvette from an assay station to a cytometry station or detection station in the same module. In some embodiments, a device-level sample handling system may transfer a cuvette from an assay station to a cytometry station or detection station in a different module.

Cuvettes may be useful, for example, for colorimetric analysis or cytometry. The cuvette may be useful for any other analysis described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, a cuvette has a configuration optimized for use with a cytometer, e.g. to interface with a microscopy stage. In some embodiments, a cuvette has a configuration optimized for use with a spectrophotometer.

A cuvette may be formed of any material, including those described elsewhere herein. The cuvette may optionally be formed of a transparent, translucent, opaque material, or any combination thereof. The cuvette may prevent a chemical contained therein from passing from one cavity to another.

FIG. 28 shows an example of a tip in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The tip 7100 may be capable of interfacing with a microcard, cuvette carrier and/or strip, including any examples described herein.

The tip may include a narrow portion that may deposit a sample 7102, a sample volume area 7104, and/or a nozzle insertion area 7106. In some instances, the tip may include one or more of the areas described. The sample deposit area may have a smaller diameter than a sample volume area. The sample volume area may have a smaller volume than a nozzle insertion area. The sample deposit area may have a smaller volume than a nozzle insertion area.

In some embodiments, a lip 7108 or surface may be provided at an end of the nozzle insertion area 7106. The lip may protrude from the surface of the nozzle insertion area.

The tip may include one or more connecting region, such as a funnel region 7110 or step region 7112 that may be provided between various types of area. For example, a funnel region may be provided between a sample deposit area 7102 and a sample volume area 7104. A step region 7112 may be provided between a sample volume area 7104, and a nozzle insertion area. Any type of connecting region may or may not be provided between the connecting regions.

A sample deposit area may include an opening through which a fluid may be aspirated and/or dispensed. A nozzle insertion area may include an opening into which a pipette nozzle may optionally be inserted. Any type of nozzle-tip interface as described elsewhere herein may be used. The opening of the nozzle insertion area may have a greater diameter than an opening of the sample deposit area.

The tip may be formed of a transparent, translucent, and/or opaque material. The tip may be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material. The tip may be formed from any material described elsewhere herein.

The tip may or may not be coated with one or more reagents.

The tip may be used for nucleic acid tests, or any other tests, assays, and/or processes described elsewhere herein.

FIG. 29 provides an example of a test strip. The test strip may include a test strip body 7200. The test strip body may be formed from a solid material or may be formed from a hollow shell, or any other configuration.

The test strip may include one or more cavities 7210. In some embodiments, the cavities may be provided as a row in the body. The cavities may optionally be provided in a straight row, in an array (e.g., m×n array where m, n are whole numbers greater than zero including but not limited to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or more). The cavities may be positioned in staggered rows, concentric circles, or any other arrangement.

The cavities may accept a sample, fluid or other substance directly therein, or may accept a vessel and/or tip that may be configured to confine or accept a sample, fluid, or other substance therein. The cavities may be configured to accept a tip, such as a tip illustrated in FIG. 28, or any other tip and/or vessel described elsewhere herein. The test strip may optionally be a nucleic acid test strip, which may be configured to accept and support nucleic acid tips.

A cavity may have a tapered opening. In one example, a cavity may include a top portion 7210 a, and a bottom portion 7210 b. The top portion may be tapered and may have an opening greater in diameter than the bottom portion.

In some embodiments, the cavity may be configured to accept a pipette nozzle for pick-up. One or more pipette nozzle may engage with one or more cavity of the test strip. One, two, three, four, five, six or more pipette nozzles may simultaneously engage with corresponding cavities of the test strip. A tapered opening of the cavity may be useful for nozzle pick-up. The pipette nozzle may be press-fit into the cavity or may interface with the cavity in any other manner described herein.

One or more sample and/or reagent may be provided in a test strip. The test strips may have a narrow profile. A plurality of test strips may be positioned adjacent to one another. In some instances, a plurality of test strips adjacent to one another may form an array of cavities. The test strips may be swapped out for modular configurations. The test strips and/or reagents may be movable independently of one another. The test strips may have different samples therein, which may need to be kept at different conditions and/or shuttled to different parts of the device on different schedules.

FIG. 30 shows another example of a test strip. The test strip may have a body 7300. The body may be formed from a single integral piece or multiple pieces. The body may have a molded shape. The body may form a plurality of circular pieces 7310 a, 7310 b connected to one another, or various shapes connected to one another. The bodies of the circular pieces may directly connect to one another or one or more strip or space may be provided between the bodies.

The test strip may include one or more cavities 7330. In some embodiments, the cavities may be provided as a row in the body. The cavities may optionally be provided in a straight row, in an array (e.g., m×n array where m, n are whole numbers greater than zero including but not limited to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or more). The cavities may be positioned in staggered rows, concentric circles, or any other arrangement.

The cavities may accept a sample, fluid or other substance directly therein, or may accept a vessel and/or tip that may be configured to confine or accept a sample, fluid, or other substance therein. The cavities may be configured to accept a tip, such as a tip illustrated in FIG. 28, or any other tip and/or vessel described elsewhere herein. The test strip may optionally be a nucleic acid test strip, which may be configured to accept and support nucleic acid tips.

The test strip body 7330 may be molded around the cavities 7330. For example, if a cavity has a circular cross-section, the test strip body portion 7310 a, 7310 b around that cavity may have a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the test strip body need not match the cavity shape.

In some embodiments, the test strip may include an external pick-up receptacle 7320. One or more pipette nozzle may engage with one or more external pick-up receptacle of the test strip. One, two, three, four, five, six or more pipette nozzles may simultaneously engage with corresponding pick-up receptacles of the test strip. A pick-up receptacle may have one or more cavity 7340 or through-hole that may be capable of interfacing with a pipette nozzle. The pipette nozzle may be press-fit into the cavity or may interface with the receptacle in any other manner described herein.

One or more samples and/or reagents may be provided in a test strip. The one or more sample may be directly within a cavity or may be provided in tips and/or vessels that may be placed in a cavity of the test strip. The test strips may have a narrow profile. A plurality of test strips may be positioned adjacent to one another. In some instances, a plurality of test strips adjacent to one another may form an array of cavities.

The test strips may be swapped out for modular configurations. The test strips may be movable independently of one another. The test strips and/or reagents may have different samples therein, which may need to be kept at different conditions and/or shuttled to different parts of the device on different schedules.

In embodiments, a sample handling device may contain a fluid handling apparatus. The fluid handling apparatus may have both low volume (1-10 uL capacity) and high volume (10-50 uL capacity) nozzles, to ensure high volumetric precision at low volumes. The narrow volumetric range of the low volume nozzles allows for a small piston cross section, resulting in a large stroke length for small volumes. This ensures high-precision low-volume handling.

In embodiments, all nozzle z-movements and aspiration/dispense steps of a fluid handling apparatus are independently actuated and controlled, allowing each drive train to be individually personalized and optimized. This ensures precise positioning and fluid handling.

In embodiments, the pistons in the fluid handling apparatus are designed to minimize dead volume in the air column. This may be achieved by minimizing the volume of air column in the nozzle, and minimizing distance between the piston assembly and the nozzle. This results in precise transfer of pressure between the piston and the nozzle, and positively impacts precision.

In embodiments, the fluid handling apparatus is designed with high-resolution encoders and low-backlash drive train to enable small, precise, movements. This may be accomplished by selecting fine-pitched gears and lead-screws, and high-resolution encoders on all drive trains. The high precision for small movements in the drive train directly translate to high precision fluid handling at small volumes

Piston assemblies of a fluid handling apparatus may be constructed with wear-resistant, low-friction seals between the plunger and the piston chamber. This results in a consistent seal over the life of the sample handling device, ensuring precise fluid handling.

The taper-taper interface between the pipette nozzles of a fluid handling apparatus and consumable parts ensure a robust seal and are designed with high tolerance features to enable repeatable seals and performance across nozzles, tips, and devices.

During pick-up of a consumable (tip or vessel) by the fluid handling apparatus, seal between nozzle and consumable may be achieved by applying a constant downward force, which results in the consumable being pressed by the nozzle against the rigid surface of the cartridge. This force is responsible for creating the seal between the nozzle and the consumable. Precise control of this force in a device ensures that the seal is always consistent. This seal consistency directly impacts volumetric precision.

The structure of a sample handling device may be designed to be rigid to minimize slop. This, in addition to the high-resolution, low-backlash drivetrain, and closed-loop control, allow for very precise movements and positioning. This ensures consistency across consumable pickup, and interaction between tips and vessels. This positional precision directly impacts the ability to handle small volume fluids in small vessels. In addition to the rigid structure, each sample handling device may be individually personalized on a Co-ordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) to ensure that the location of each resource in a sample handling device is accurately calibrated.

In embodiments, a sample handling device may have active temperature control, which maintains the temperature inside sample handling device to within +/−1 C of target temperature. This may maintains a constant temperature in the piston assembly of the fluid handling apparatus. This minimizes pressure variations in the piston air column, and positively impacts volumetric precision.

In embodiments, tips for use with a fluid handling apparatus of a sample handling device may be designed with a gradual taper, avoiding any sharp angles, which may retain drops of fluid. This minimizes errors at small volume transfers. In addition, certain tips are coated with Surfasil, which makes the tip surface hydrophobic, preventing any fluid retention on the outer surface of tips.

In embodiments, pipette nozzles may be made from metal (aluminum) while single-use consumables are made of plastic polymers. Use of these materials in these mating parts may ensure long life and robust performance of a sample handling device over time.

In embodiments, consumables for use with a sample handling device are single use ensuring that they do not fatigue or deform.

In embodiments, tip and vessel geometry for use with devices and systems provided herein are designed to minimize overflow when a tip is inserted into a fluid-filled vessel. Surfasil coating on the certain vessels (in addition to tips) prevents capillary driven fluid flow between the tip outer surface and the vessel inner surface. These measures also prevent fluid retention on the outside of tips.

In embodiments, vessel bottoms may have a conical geometry to minimize overage, allowing for maximum recovery of fluid from a vessel. This allows systems and devices provided herein to operate with very small overages, minimizing sample waste.

In embodiments, all consumables for use with systems and devices provided herein may be fabricated in a manufacturing facility held to high tolerances with frequent and rigid inspection. This ensures that all consumable types are precisely dimensioned, allowing for high precision in interactions between the fluid handling module and the consumables.

In embodiments, in systems and devices provided herein, fluid handling (aspiration, dispense, mix) is optimized to the physical properties of the fluid being handled. For example, fluids with high viscosity or low surface tension are aspirated and dispensed at slow speeds, to minimize adverse fluidic effects and to ensure accurate volumetric transfer. In addition to speed, forward and reverse pipetting is used depending on fluid type. A fluid handling apparatus may also have different calibrations based on fluid type to ensure volumetric accuracy for all fluid types.

In embodiments, precise positioning of nozzle z-positioning and tightly tolerance consumables enable the offset between the tip and the fluid level in a vessel to be highly precise. This may be accomplished by tracking the volume.

In embodiments, devices and systems provided herein may be designed for function in a point of service location. Such locations may be outside of a traditional laboratory, and may be for example, in a retail or home location.

In embodiments, such devices or systems may have various qualities, such as: 1) Not requiring in-field user calibration; 2) quality control may be run on-board cartridges to ensure proper device sample processing without any user intervention; 3) the device or system may be designed for sustained operation for 24 hours, 7 days a week, for over 1 year without failure.

Systems and devices provided herein may incorporate several robust design elements.

In embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may be developed according to design control procedures that ensure that function requirements are documented and validated. Systems and methods may be designed for reliability, in which one or more of the following are met: a) each design element in the system or device was evaluated for robustness incorporating several orders of factors of safety to ensure that the functional requirements are satisfied; b) minimal and simplified user interactions with the system or device; c) monitoring of system performance via integrated highly precise and accurate sensors and encoders; d) intelligent integrated feedback and controls that ensure robust performance over the life of the system or device; e) selection of very reliable components for the system of device in order to meet requirements—examples include: brushless motors for long life, durable and stiff materials that will not fatigue, high quality bearings and wear pairings to provide extended life and performance, and rigid structures; and f) extensive testing of system and components to demonstrate and validate performance.

In embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may be designed with risk assessment procedures, such that risk management, hazard analysis, FMEA procedures are followed to evaluate system and process performance and highlight elements that may need mitigation.

In embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may be designed with quality control and quality assurance, such that effective QC and QA procedures are established to ensure the highest quality systems are designed and produced.

In embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may be designed with good manufacturing procedures, such that production processes follow good manufacturing principles to ensure high quality systems are produced.

In embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may incorporate one or more features for error detection during sample handling.

For example, during pre-analytical steps, time of collection may be recorded by scanning the vessel containing a sample after collection of the sample. The time of sample run is recorded by the system or device during scanning of a barcode on a cartridge for sample processing. This time information may be sent to an automated laboratory computer system, which flags an error if the time interval between sample collection and run exceeds specified interval.

Systems and devices may include real time monitoring of liquid handling system and associated motion via very fine resolution encoders and sensors. If any movement is outside of pre-defined tolerances one or more actions may occur, such as: a) the system or device may terminate the protocol depending on the error detected; b) the system or device may auto-correct to bring itself into tolerance and continue with the protocol; c) the system or device will send an error message to a laboratory computer system with the log file for evaluation.

Systems and devices provided herein may include monitoring of resource pickup and drop off by the liquid handling system. For example, images may be taken in a camera module of vessel pickup/drop-off operations, and images are transmitted to a laboratory computer system, where images are automatically processed to determine errors in real time.

Systems and devices provided herein may include features for monitoring liquid handling errors. For example, pipette tips may be imaged in a camera module after aspiration/dispense and images are sent to a laboratory computer system, where image processing algorithms automatically detect out of specification operations. For cytometry assays, the absolute number of control beads in a channel may be counted in the computer system, and the system or device is flagged for error if the total number lies beyond a specified range. For general chemistry assays, the intensity value at 800 nm is compared in the computer system against a minimum and maximum intensity value, and the system or device is flagged if the value is beyond acceptable range.

Systems and devices provided herein may include features for monitoring detector errors. For example, for a cytometer, fluorescent beads may be included as part of the reagent in cytometry assays. The fluorescence intensity from these beads are compared against an accepted range in the computer system to check for inconsistencies. In another example, for a spectrophotometer: Intensity at 800 nm is compared against an accepted range in the computer system to check for errors. In another example, for a luminometer: Dark counts are compared against an accepted range in the computer system to check for errors. In another example, for nucleic acid amplification assays, fluorescence intensity counts are compared with and without the sample (blank) against an accepted range in the computer system to check for errors.

Systems and devices provided herein may have on-board controls. On-board controls are used to check the performance of the system including: liquid handling, reagent activity, detector performance, environmental control, data transmission, calibration, and data processing. For ELISA and GC assays, the sequence of runs follows control-sample-control to ensure that control runs are fully representative of system performance.

Systems and devices provided herein may monitor sample/matrix related errors. For example, after aspiration into tips, whole blood and plasma sample volumes are imaged in the camera module and images are sent to the computer system, where image processing algorithms automatically calculate the sample volume. Short samples are flagged by the computer system and the protocol is terminated by the system or device accordingly. For general chemistry or ELISA assays: Absorbance spectrum for sample blank is analyzed in the computer system to detect hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus. All absorbance spectra are scanned for spurious peaks, and flagged as errors by the computer system. For cytometry assays: Scattergram and cells/field of view are used as metrics to determine sample related errors in the computer system.

It should be understood that measures may be implemented to minimize cross-contamination in the systems and methods herein, which is desirable particularly when handling microliter volumes of sample.

In one non-limiting example, fluid handling disposables such as but not limited to fluid handling tips, pipette tips, or other fluid contacting workpiece are used in a workflow wherein the fluid contacting workpiece(s) are not used across more than one assay. Optionally, fluid contacting workpiece(s) are not used to interact with more than one fluid well or vessel. Optionally, fluid contacting workpiece(s) are not used to interact with more than two fluid well or vessel. Optionally, fluid contacting workpiece(s) used for transferring reagent are not dipped in a sample/dilution well, unless there is only one assay in the cartridge which uses the particular sample/dilution well. Optionally, fluid contacting workpiece(s) which have been used for transferring sample of one dilution do not come in contact with sample of any other dilution.

It should be understood that fluid remaining in any fluid contacting workpiece is disposed of directly into an absorbent touch-off pad, ensuring that fluid is removed from the tip and is contained in the absorbent pad and not free to mix with other reagents. Optionally, touch-off points are separated such that fluid dispensed into one touch-off point, such as but not limited a touch-off point on the absorbent touch-off pad, does not flow to an adjacent future touch-off point.

High positional precision and control on gantry (x,y axes), and the liquid handling module (z and pump axes) are used in one or more embodiments to ensure that fluid operations (aspiration, dispense, mixing) can be done without fluid overflowing in tips and vessels. In this manner, the fluid control within the fluid contacting workpiece is controlled with a pre-selected, known precision. Fluid contacting workpiece(s) and vessels are also designed to minimize chances for overflow by having sufficient dead space.

Optionally, tips or fluid contacting workpieces may have filters at one or more locations within the tip or fluid contacting workpieces to prevent fluid contact with nozzles. This can be desirable as the fluid contacting workpieces are disposable items and the nozzles are hardware items that may interact with a plurality of tips while the aliquots of sample from the same subject are being processed. This minimizes cross contamination when unused fluid contacting workpieces are coupled to hardware such as but not limited to the nozzle that may interact with a plurality of disposable without a cleaning step or a plurality of cleaning steps.

Optionally, a thermal control system is designed to eliminate low pressure zones, which ensures that there is no downward force acting on the fluid inside tips. These low pressure zones may be in the environment within the system but external to the tip, where such low pressure zones may cause handling issues for fluid inside the tips or workpieces.

It should be understood that high gantry precision and optimized tip pick-up protocol may be used to ensure a good, consistent seal between the nozzle and the tip, which maintains a holding force on the fluid column in the tip, minimizing chances of fluid leakage. By way of non-limiting example, a protocol may involve verifying visually, by touch, or both that a tip is fully seated onto a nozzle. Optionally, some embodiments may press the tip onto the fluid handling nozzle two or more times to increase the likelihood that at least one of those steps will have properly seated the tip onto the nozzle or other hardware feature on the fluid handling system.

Processing Units

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a preparation station and/or assay station, or any other portion of a module or device, may include one or more processing units. A processing unit may be configured to prepare a sample for the performance and/or to perform a biological or chemical reaction that yields a detectable signal indicative of the presence or absence of one or more analyte, and/or a concentration of a one or more analyte. The processing unit may be used for preparing an assay sample or performing any other process with respect to the sample or related reagents, as provided in one or more sample preparation or processing steps as described elsewhere herein. The processing unit may have one or more characteristics of an assay unit as described elsewhere herein. A processing unit may function as an assay unit as described elsewhere herein.

A detectable signal may include an optical signal, visible signal, electrical signal, magnetic signal, infrared signal, thermal signal, motion, weight, or sound.

In some embodiments, a plurality of processing units may be provided. In some embodiments, one or more row of processing units, and/or one or more column of processing units may be provided. In some embodiments, an m×n array of processing units may be provided, wherein m, n are whole numbers. The processing units may be provided in staggered rows or columns from each other. In some embodiments, they may have any other configuration.

Any number of processing units may be provided. For example there may be more than and/or equal to about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 400, 500, or 1000 processing units.

Processing units may be provided in a cartridge, card, or have any other supporting structure. The processing units may have the same orientation. Alternatively, processing units may have different orientations. In some examples, processing units may be kept at a vertical orientation. In other examples, processing units may have horizontal or vertical orientations, or any other angle of orientation. The processing units may remain the same or may vary over time.

In some cases, a pipette, tip, or both may be integrated with a cartridge or card. In some cases, tips or pipettes, or components of tips or pipettes, are integrated with cartridges or cards.

The processing units may be fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent from one another. The processing units may contain and/or confine samples or other fluids that may be in fluid isolation from one another. The samples and/or other fluids contained within the processing units may be the same, or may vary from unit to unit. The system may be capable of tracking what each processing unit contains. The system may be capable of tracking the location and history of each processing unit.

The processing units may be independently movable relative to one another, or another portion of the device or module. Thus, the fluids and/or samples contained therein may be independently movable relative to one another or other portions of the device or module. A processing unit may be individually addressable.

The location of each processing unit may be tracked. A processing unit may be individually selected to receive and/or provide a fluid. A processing unit may be individually selected to transport a fluid. Fluid may be individually provided to or removed from a processing unit. Fluid may be individually dispensed and/or aspirated using the processing unit. A processing unit may be independently detectable.

Any description herein of individual processing units may also apply to groups of processing units. A group of processing units may include one, two, or more processing units. In some embodiments, processing units within a group may be moved simultaneously. The location of groups of processing units may be tracked. Fluids may be simultaneously delivered and/or aspirated from one or more group of processing units. Detection may occur simultaneously to processing units within one or more groups of processing units.

The processing units may have the form or characteristics of any of the tips or vessels as described elsewhere herein. For example, a processing unit can be any of the tips or vessels described herein. Any description herein of processing units may also apply to tips or vessels, or any description of tips or vessels may also apply to the processing units.

In some embodiments, a processing unit may be a processing tip. A processing tip may have a first end and a second end. The first end and second end may be opposing one another. The first end and/or the second end may be open or closed. In some embodiments, both the first and second ends may be open. In alternate embodiments, the processing unit may have three, four, or more ends.

The processing tip may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. A passageway may connect the first and second ends of the processing tip. The passageway may be a conduit or channel. The first and second ends of the processing tip may be in fluid communication with one another. The diameter of the first end of the processing tip may be greater than the diameter of the second end of the processing tip. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first end of the processing tip may be greater than the outer diameter of the second end of the processing tip. An inner diameter of the first end of the processing tip may be greater than the inner diameter of the second end of the processing tip. Alternatively, a diameter of the processing tip may be the same at the first and second ends. In some embodiments, the second end may be held below the first end of the processing tip. Alternatively the relative positions of the first and second ends may vary.

In some embodiments, a processing unit may be a vessel. A processing unit may have a first end and a second end. The first end and second end may be opposing one another. The first end and/or the second end may be open or closed. In some embodiments, the second end may be held below the first end of the processing unit. Alternatively the relative positions of the first and second ends may vary. An open end of the processing unit may be oriented upwards, or may be held higher than a closed end.

In some embodiments, a processing unit may have a cap or closure. The cap or closure may be capable of blocking an open end of the processing unit. The cap or closure may be selectively applied to close or open the open end of the processing unit. The cap or closure may have one or more configuration as illustrated elsewhere herein or as known in the art. The cap or closure may form an airtight seal that may separate the contents of the reagent unit from the ambient environment. The cap or closure may include a film, oil (e.g., mineral oil), wax, or gel.

As previously described regarding tips and/or vessels, a processing unit may be picked up using a fluid handling device. For example, a pipette or other fluid handling device may connect to the processing unit. A pipette nozzle or orifice may interface with an end of the processing unit. In some embodiments, a fluid-tight seal may be formed between the fluid handling device and the processing unit. A processing unit may be attached to and/or detached from the fluid handling device. Any other automated device or process may be used to move or manipulate a processing unit. A processing unit may be moved or manipulated without the intervention of a human.

A fluid handling device or any other automated device may be able to pick up or drop off an individual processing unit. A fluid handling device or other automated device may be able to simultaneously pick up or drop off a plurality of processing units. A fluid handling device or other automated device may be able to selectively pick up or drop off a plurality of processing units. In some embodiments, a fluid handling device may be able to selectively aspirate and/or dispense a sample using one, two or more processing units.

Any description of fluid handling systems as described previously herein may apply to the processing units.

In one embodiment, a processing unit may be formed from molded plastic. The processing unit may be either commercially available or can be made by injection molding with precise shapes and sizes. The units can be coated with capture reagents or other materials using method similar to those used to coat microtiter plates but with the advantage that they can be processed in bulk by placing them in a large vessel, adding coating reagents and processing using sieves, holders, and the like to recover the pieces and wash them as needed. In some embodiments, the capture reagents may be provided on an interior surface of the processing units.

A processing unit can offer a rigid support on which a reactant can be immobilized. The processing unit may also be chosen to provide appropriate characteristics with respect to interactions with light. For example, the processing unit can be made of a material, such as functionalized glass, Si, Ge, GaAs, GaP, SiO₂, SiN₄, modified silicon, or any one of a wide variety of gels or polymers such as (poly)tetrafluoroethylene, (poly)vinylidenedifluoride, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, Polymethylmethacylate (PMMA), ABS, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, a processing unit may comprise polystyrene. Other appropriate materials may be used in accordance with the present invention. Any of the materials described here, such as those applying to tips and/or vessels may be used to form a processing unit. A transparent reaction site may be advantageous. In addition, in the case where there is an optically transmissive window permitting light to reach an optical detector, the surface may be advantageously opaque and/or preferentially light scattering. The processing unit may optionally be opaque and not permit the transmission of light therein.

A reactant may be immobilized at the capture surface of a processing unit. In some embodiments, the capture surface is provided on an interior surface of the processing unit. In one example, the capture surface may be provided in a lower portion of a processing tip or vessel.

The processing units can be dried following the last step of incorporating a capture surface. For example, drying can be performed by passive exposure to a dry atmosphere or via the use of a vacuum manifold and/or application of clean dry air through a manifold.

In some embodiments, rather than using a capture surface on the processing unit, beads or other substrates may be provided to the processing units with capture surfaces provided thereon. One or more free-flowing substrate may be provided with a capture surface. In some embodiments, the free-flowing substrate with a capture surface may be provided within a fluid. In some embodiments, a bead may be magnetic. The bead may be coated with one or more reagents as known in the art. A magnetic bead may be held at a desired location within the processing unit. The magnetic bead may be positioned using one or more magnet.

Beads may be useful for conducting one or more assay, including but not limited to immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, or any of the other assays described elsewhere herein. The beads may be used during a reaction (e.g., chemical, physical, biological reaction). The beads may be used during one or more sample preparation step. The beads may be coated with one or more reagent. The beads themselves may be formed of reagents. The beads may be used for purification, mixing, filtering, or any other processes. The beads may be formed of a transparent material, translucent material, and/or opaque material. The beads may be formed of a thermally conductive or thermally insulative material. The beads may be formed of an electrically conductive or electrically insulative material. The beads may accelerate a sample preparation and/or assay step. The beads may provide an increased surface area that may react with one or more sample or fluid.

In alternate embodiments, beads or other solid materials may be provided to the assay units. The beads may be configured to dissolve under certain conditions. For example, the beads may dissolve when in contact with a fluid, or when in contact with an analyte or other reagents. The beads may dissolve at particular temperatures.

The beads may have any size or shape. The beads may be spherical. The beads may have a diameter of less than or equal to about 1 nm, 5 nm, 10 nm, 50 nm, 100 nm, 200 nm, 300 nm, 500 nm, 750 nm, 1 μm, 2 μm, 3 μm, 5 μm, 10 μm, 20 μm, 50 μm, 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, 400 μm, 500 μm, 600 μm, 700 μm, 800 μm, 900 μm, 1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, or 5 mm. The beads may be of the same size or differing sizes. The beads may include microparticles or nanoparticles.

A processing unit may have any dimension, including those described elsewhere herein for tips and/or vessels. The processing unit may be capable of containing and/or confining a small volume of sample and/or other fluid, including volumes mentioned elsewhere herein.

A processing unit may be picked up and/or removed from a fluid handling mechanism. For example, a processing tip or other processing unit may be picked up by a pipette nozzle. The processing tip or other processing unit may be dropped off by a pipette nozzle. In some embodiments, processing units may be selectively individually picked up and/or dropped off. One or more group of processing units may be selectively picked up and/or dropped off. A processing unit may be picked up and/or dropped off using an automated mechanism. A processing unit may be picked up and/or dropped off without requiring human intervention. A pipette may pick up and/or drop off a processing unit in accordance with descriptions provided elsewhere herein.

A processing unit may be moved within a device and/or module using a fluid handling mechanism.

For example, a processing tip/vessel or other processing unit may be transported using a pipette head. The processing tip/vessel or other processing unit may be transported in a horizontal direction and/or vertical direction. The processing tip/vessel and/or processing unit may be transported in any direction. The processing unit may be moved individually using the fluid handling mechanism. One or more groups of processing units may be simultaneously moved using the fluid handling mechanism.

A processing unit may be shaped and/or sized to permit detection by a detection unit. The detection unit may be provided external to, inside, or integrated with the processing unit. In one example, the processing unit may be transparent. The processing unit may permit the detection of an optical signal, audio signal, visible signal, electrical signal, magnetic signal, chemical signal, biological signal, motion, acceleration, weight, or any other signal by a detection unit.

A detector may be capable of detecting signals from individual processing units. The detector may differentiate signals received from each of the individual processing units. The detector may individually track and/or follow signals from each of the individual processing units. A detector may be capable of simultaneously detecting signals from one or more groups of processing units. The detector may track and/or follow signals from the one or more groups of processing units.

In some embodiments, magnetic particles or superparamagnetic nanoparticles may be used in conjunction with vessels and miniaturized magnetic resonance to effect particular unit operations. Magnetic particles or superparamagnetic nanoparticles may be manipulated either via external magnetic fields, or via the pipette/fluid transfer device. Magnetic beads may be used for separations (when coated with antibodies/antigens/other capture molecules), for mixing (via agitation by external magnetic field), for concentrating analytes (either by selectively separating the analyte, or by separating impurities), etc. All these unit operations may be effectively carried out in small volumes with high efficiencies.

Reagent Unit

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, an assay station, or any other portion of a module or device, may include one or more reagent units. A reagent unit may be configured to contain and/or confine a reagent that may be used in an assay. The reagent within the reagent unit may be used in a biological or chemical reaction. The reagent unit may store one or more reagent prior to, during, or subsequent to a reaction that may occur with the reagent. The biological and/or chemical reactions may or may not take place external to the reagent units.

Reagents may include any of the reagents described in greater detail elsewhere herein. For example, reagents may include a sample diluent, a detector conjugate (for example, an enzyme-labeled antibody), a wash solution, and an enzyme substrate. Additional reagents can be provided as needed.

In some embodiments, a plurality of reagent units may be provided. In some embodiments, one or more row of reagent units, and/or one or more column of reagent units may be provided. In some embodiments, an m×n array of reagent units may be provided, wherein m, n are whole numbers. The reagent units may be provided in staggered rows or columns from each other. In some embodiments, they may have any other configuration.

Any number of reagent units may be provided. For example there may be more than and/or equal to about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 150, 175, 200, 250, 300, 400, 500, or 1000 reagent units.

Optionally, the same number of reagent units and assay units may be provided. One or more reagent units may correspond to an assay unit. One or more assay units may correspond to a reagent unit. One or more reagent units may be movable relative to an assay unit. Alternative, one or more assay unit may be movable relative to a reagent unit. An assay unit may be individually movable relative to a reagent unit.

Reagent units may be provided in a cartridge, card, or have any other supporting structure. The reagent units may have the same orientation. For example reagent units may have one or more open end that may be facing in the same direction. Alternatively, reagent units may have different orientations. In some examples, reagent units may be kept at a vertical orientation. In other examples, reagent units may have horizontal or vertical orientations, or any other angle of orientation. The reagent units may remain the same or may vary over time. Reagent units may be provided on a supporting structure with assay units.

Alternatively, reagent units may be provided on separate supporting structures than assay units. Reagent units and assay units may be supported in separate portions of a supporting structure. Alternatively, they may be intermingled on a supporting structure.

The reagent units may be fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent from one another. The reagent units may contain and/or confine samples or other fluids that may be in fluid isolation from one another. The samples and/or other fluids contained within the reagent units may be the same, or may vary from unit to unit. The system may be capable of tracking what each reagent unit contains. The system may be capable of tracking the location and history of each reagent unit.

The reagent units may be independently movable relative to one another, or another portion of the device or module. Thus, the fluids and/or samples contained therein may be independently movable relative to one another or other portions of the device or module. A reagent unit may be individually addressable.

The location of each reagent unit may be tracked. A reagent unit may be individually selected to receive and/or provide a fluid. A reagent unit may be individually selected to transport a fluid. Fluid may be individually provided to or removed from a reagent unit. A reagent unit may be independently detectable.

Any description herein of individual reagent units may also apply to groups of reagent units. A group of reagent units may include one, two, or more reagent units. In some embodiments, reagent units within a group may be moved simultaneously. The location of groups of reagent units may be tracked. Fluids may be simultaneously delivered and/or aspirated from one or more group of reagent units. Detection may occur simultaneously to assay units within one or more groups of assay units.

The reagent units may have the form or characteristics of any of the tips or vessels as described elsewhere herein. For example, a reagent unit can be any of the tips or vessels described herein. Any description herein of reagent units may also apply to tips or vessels, or any description of tips or vessels may also apply to the reagent units.

In some embodiments, a reagent unit may be a vessel. A reagent unit may have a first end and a second end. The first end and second end may be opposing one another. The first end and/or the second end may be open or closed. In some embodiments, a first end may be open and a second end may be closed. In alternate embodiments, the assay unit may have three, four, or more ends. The vessel may be covered by a septum and/or barrier to prevent evaporation and/or aerosolization to prevent reagent loss and contamination of the device. The vessel may be disposable. This eliminates the requirement of externally filling reagents from a common source. This also allows better quality control and handling of reagents. Additionally, this reduces contamination of the device and the surroundings.

The reagent unit may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. A passageway may connect the first and second ends of the reagent unit. The passageway may be a conduit or channel. The first and second ends of the assay tip may be in fluid communication with one another. The diameter of the first end of the reagent unit may be greater than the diameter of the second end of the reagent unit. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first end of the reagent unit may be greater than the outer diameter of the second end of the reagent unit. Alternatively, the diameters may be the same, or the outer diameter of the second end may be greater than the outer diameter of the first end. An inner diameter of the first end of the reagent unit may be greater than the inner diameter of the second end of the reagent unit. Alternatively, a diameter and/or inner diameter of the reagent unit may be the same at the first and second ends. In some embodiments, the second end may be held below the first end of the reagent unit. Alternatively the relative positions of the first and second ends may vary. An open end of the reagent unit may be oriented upwards, or may be held higher than a closed end.

In some embodiments, a reagent unit may have a cap or closure. The cap or closure may be capable of blocking an open end of the reagent unit. The cap or closure may be selectively applied to close or open the open end of the reagent unit. The cap or closure may have one or more configuration as illustrated elsewhere herein or as known in the art. The cap or closure may form an airtight seal that may separate the contents of the reagent unit from the ambient environment.

As previously described regarding tips and/or vessels, a reagent unit may be picked up using a fluid handling device. For example, a pipette or other fluid handling device may connect to the reagent unit. A pipette nozzle or orifice may interface with an end of the reagent unit. In some embodiments, a fluid-tight seal may be formed between the fluid handling device and the reagent unit. A reagent unit may be attached to and/or detached from the fluid handling device. The fluid handling device may move the reagent unit from one location to another. Alternatively, the reagent unit is not connected to the fluid handling device. Any other automated device or process may be used to move or manipulate an assay unit. A reagent unit may be moved or manipulated without the intervention of a human.

A reagent unit may be configured to accept an assay unit. In some embodiments, a reagent unit may include an open end through which at least a portion of an assay unit may be inserted. In some embodiments, the assay unit may be entirely inserted within the reagent unit. An open end of the reagent unit may have a greater diameter than at least one of the open ends of the assay unit. In some instances, an inner diameter of an open end of the reagent unit may be greater than an outer diameter of at least one of the open ends of the assay unit. In some embodiments, a reagent unit may be shaped or may include one or more feature that may permit the assay unit to be inserted a desired amount within the reagent unit. The assay unit may or may not be capable of being inserted completely into the reagent unit.

An assay unit may dispense to and/or aspirate a fluid from the reagent unit. A reagent unit may provide a fluid, such as a reagent, that may be picked up by the assay unit. The assay unit may optionally provide a fluid to the reagent unit. Fluid may be transferred through the open end of a reagent unit and an open end of the assay unit. The open ends of the assay unit and the reagent unit may permit the interior portions of the assay unit and the reagent unit to be brought into fluid communication with one another. In some embodiments, an assay unit may be located above the reagent unit during said dispensing and/or aspiration.

Alternatively, fluid transfer between the reagent unit and the assay unit may be done by a fluid handling device. One or several such fluid transfers might happen simultaneously. The fluid handling device in one embodiment might be a pipette.

In one example, a reagent for a chemical reaction may be provided within a reagent unit. An assay unit may be brought into the reagent unit and may aspirate the reagent from the reagent unit. A chemical reaction may occur within the assay unit. The excess fluid from the reaction may be dispensed from the assay unit. The assay unit may pick up a wash solution. The wash solution may be expelled from the assay unit.

The washing step may occur one, two, three, four, five, or more times. The wash solution may optionally be picked up and/or dispensed to a reagent unit. This may reduce background signal interference. A detector may detect one or more signal from the assay unit. The reduced background signal interference may permit increased sensitivity of signals detected from the assay unit. An assay tip format may be employed, which may advantageously provide easy expulsion of fluids for improved washing conditions.

A fluid handling device or any other automated device may be able to pick up or drop off an individual assay unit. A fluid handling device or other automated device may be able to simultaneously pick up or drop off a plurality of assay units. A fluid handling device or other automated device may be able to selectively pick up or drop off a plurality of assay units. In some embodiments, a fluid handling device may be able to selectively aspirate and/or dispense a sample using one, two or more assay units. Any description of fluid handling systems as described previously herein may apply to the assay units.

In one embodiment, a reagent unit may be formed from molded plastic. The reagent unit may be either commercially available or can be made by injection molding with precise shapes and sizes. The units can be coated with capture reagents using method similar to those used to coat microtiter plates but with the advantage that they can be processed in bulk by placing them in a large vessel, adding coating reagents and processing using sieves, holders, and the like to recover the pieces and wash them as needed. In some embodiments, the capture reagents may be provided on an interior surface of the reagent units. Alternatively reagent units may be uncoated, or may be coated with other substances.

A reagent unit can offer a rigid support. The reagent unit may be chosen to provide appropriate characteristics with respect to interactions with light. For example, the reagent unit can be made of a material, such as functionalized glass, Si, Ge, GaAs, GaP, SiO₂, SiN₄, modified silicon, or any one of a wide variety of gels or polymers such as (poly)tetrafluoroethylene, (poly)vinylidenedifluoride, polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, PMMA, ABS, or combinations thereof. In an embodiment, an assay unit may comprise polystyrene. Other appropriate materials may be used in accordance with the present invention. Any of the materials described here, such as those applying to tips and/or vessels may be used to form a reagent unit. A transparent reaction site may be advantageous. In addition, in the case where there is an optically transmissive window permitting light to reach an optical detector, the surface may be advantageously opaque and/or preferentially light scattering.

A reagent unit may or may not offer a capture surface, such as those described for assay units.

Similarly, a reagent unit may or may not employ beads or other substrates to provide capture surfaces. Any description relating to beads or other capture surfaces for assay units or processing units may also optionally be applied to reagent units.

A reagent unit may or may not have a reaction site. Any description herein of a reaction site for an assay unit may also apply to a reagent unit.

A reagent unit may have any dimension, including those described elsewhere herein for tips and/or vessels. The reagent unit may be capable of containing and/or confining a small volume of sample and/or other fluid, including volumes mentioned elsewhere herein.

A reagent unit may be stationary within a device and/or module. Alternatively, a reagent unit may be movable relative to the device and/or module. A reagent unit may be picked up and/or moved using a fluid handling mechanism or any other automated process. For example, a reagent unit may be picked up by a pipette nozzle, such as in a manner described elsewhere for an assay unit.

Relative movement may occur between the assay unit and the reagent unit. The assay unit and/or reagent unit may move relative to one another. Assay units may move relative to one another. Reagent units may move relative to one another. Assay units and/or reagent units may be individually movable relative to the device and/or module.

A reagent unit may be shaped and/or sized to permit detection by a detection unit. The detection unit may be provided external to, inside, or integrated with the reagent unit. In one example, the reagent unit may be transparent. The reagent unit may permit the detection of an optical signal, audio signal, visible signal, electrical signal, magnetic signal, motion, acceleration, weight, or any other signal by a detection unit.

A detector may be capable of detecting signals from individual reagent units. The detector may differentiate signals received from each of the individual reagent units. The detector may individually track and/or follow signals from each of the individual reagent units. A detector may be capable of simultaneously detecting signals from one or more groups of reagent units. The detector may track and/or follow signals from the one or more groups of reagent units. Alternatively, the detector need not detect signals from individual reagents. In some embodiments the device and/or system may keep track of the identity of reagents or other fluids provided within the reagent units, or information associated with the reagents or other fluids.

As previously mentioned reagent units may include one or more reagents therein. Reagents may include a wash buffer, enzyme substrate, dilution buffer, or conjugates (such as enzyme labeled conjugates).

Examples of enzyme labeled conjugates may include polyclonal antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, or may be labeled with enzyme that can yield a detectable signal upon reaction with an appropriate substrate. Reagents may also include DNA amplifiers, sample diluents, wash solutions, sample pre-treatment reagents (including additives such as detergents), polymers, chelating agents, albumin-binding reagents, enzyme inhibitors, enzymes (e.g., alkaline phosphatase, horseradish peroxide), anticoagulants, red-cell agglutinating agents, or antibodies. Any other examples of reagents described elsewhere herein may also be contained and/or confined within a reagent unit.

Dilution

The device and/or module may permit the use of one or more diluents in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Diluent may be contained in one or more reagent unit, or any other unit that may contain and/or confine the diluents. The diluents may be provided in a tip, vessel, chamber, container, channel, tube, reservoir, or any other component of the device and/or module. Diluent may be stored in a fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent component. The fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent component may be stationary or may be configured to move relative to one or more portion of the device and/or module.

In some embodiments, diluents may be stored in diluents units, which may have any characteristics of reagent units as described elsewhere herein. The diluents units may be stored in the same location as the rest of the reagent units, or may be stored remotely relative to the rest of the reagent units.

Any examples of diluents known in the art may be employed. Diluent may be capable of diluting or thinning a sample. In most instances, the diluents do not cause a chemical reaction to occur with the sample.

A device may employ one type of diluents. Alternatively, the device may have available or employ multiple types of diluents. The system may be capable of tracking diluents and/or various types of diluents. Thus, the system may be capable of accessing a desired type of diluents. For example, a tip may pick up a desired diluent.

In some embodiments, diluents may be provided to a sample. The diluents may dilute the sample.

The sample may become less concentrated with the addition of a diluent. The degree of dilution may be controlled according to one or more protocol or instructions. In some instances, the protocol or instructions may be provided from an external device, such as a server. Alternatively, the protocol or instructions may be provided on-board the device or cartridge or vessel. Thus, a server and/or the device may be capable of variable dilution control. By controlling the degree of dilution, the system may be capable of detecting the presence or concentration of one or more analytes that may vary over a wide range. For example, a sample may have a first analyte having a concentration that would be detectable over a first range, and a second analyte having a concentration that would be detectable over the second range. The sample may be divided and may or may not have varying amounts of diluents applied to bring the portions of the sample into a detectable range for the first and second analytes. Similarly, a sample may or may not undergo varying degrees of enrichment to bring analytes to a desired concentration for detection.

Dilution and/or enrichment may permit the one, two, three or more analytes having a wide range of concentrations to be detected. For examples, analytes differing by one or more, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, seven or more, eight or more, nine or more, or ten or more degrees of magnitude may be detected from a sample.

In some embodiments, a sample may be combined with diluents in an assay tip or other type of tip described elsewhere herein. An assay tip may aspirate a diluent. The assay tip may pick up the diluents from a reagent unit. The diluents may or may not be combined with the sample within the assay tip.

In another example, a diluents and/or sample may be combined in a reagent unit or other types of vessels described elsewhere herein. For example, a diluents may be added to a sample in a reagent unit, or a sample may be added to a diluents in the reagent unit.

In some embodiments, one or more mixing mechanism may be provided. Alternatively, no separate mixing mechanism is needed. The assay unit, reagent unit, or any other tip, vessel, or compartment combining a sample and diluents may be capable of moving, thereby effecting a mixing.

Varying amounts of diluents and/or samples may be combined to achieve a desired level of dilution.

Protocols may determine the relative proportion of diluents and sample to combine. In some embodiments, the portion of sample to diluent may be less than and/or equal to about 1:1,000,000, 1:100,000, 1:10,000, 1:1,000, 1:500, 1:100, 1:50, 1:10, 1:5, 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, or greater than and/or equal to 2:1, 3:1, 5:1, 10:1, 50:1, 100:1, 500:1, 1,000:1, 10,000:1, 100,000:1, or 1,000,000:1. The diluted sample may be picked up from the reagent unit using an assay tip, where one or more chemical reaction may occur.

A desired amount of diluents may be provided in accordance with one or more set of instructions. In some embodiments, the amount of dilution provided may be controlled by a fluid handling system. For example, an assay tip may pick up a desired amount of diluents and dispense it to a desired location. The volume of diluents picked up by the assay tip may be controlled with a high degree of sensitivity. For example, the amount of diluents picked up may have any of the volumes of fluids or samples discussed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, an assay tip may pick up a desired amount of diluents in one turn. Alternatively, an assay tip may pick up and dispense diluents multiple times in order to achieve a desired degree of dilution.

Dilution of a sample may occur during a sample pre-treatment step. A sample may be diluted prior to undergoing a chemical reaction. Alternatively, dilution may occur during a chemical reaction and/or subsequent to a chemical reaction.

The dilution factor may be optimized in real-time for each assay depending on the assay requirements. In one embodiment, real-time determination of a dilution scheme can be performed by knowledge of all assays to be performed. This optimization may take advantage of multiple assays using identical dilution. The aforementioned dilution scheme may result in higher precision of final diluted sample.

Dilution of a sample may be performed serially or in a single step. For a single-step dilution, a selected quantity of sample may be mixed with a selected quantity of diluent, in order to achieve a desired dilution of the sample. For a serial dilution, two or more separate sequential dilutions of the sample may be performed in order to achieve a desired dilution of the sample. For example, a first dilution of the sample may be performed, and a portion of that first dilution may be used as the input material for a second dilution, to yield a sample at a selected dilution level.

For dilutions described herein, an “original sample” refers to the sample that is used at the start of a given dilution process. Thus, while an “original sample” may be a sample that is directly obtained from a subject, it may also include any other sample (e.g. sample that has been processed or previously diluted in a separate dilution procedure) that is used as the starting material for a given dilution procedure.

In some embodiments, a serial dilution of a sample may be performed with a device described herein as follows. A selected quantity (e.g. volume) of an original sample may be mixed with a selected quantity of diluent, to yield a first dilution sample. The first dilution sample (and any subsequent dilution samples) will have: i) a sample dilution factor (e.g. the amount by which the original sample is diluted in the first dilution sample) and ii) an initial quantity (e.g. the total quantity of the first dilution sample present after combining the selected quantity of original sample and selected quantity of diluent). For example, 10 microliters of an original sample may be mixed with 40 microliters of diluent, to yield a first dilution sample having a 5-fold dilution factor and an initial quantity of 50 microliters. Next, a selected quantity of the first dilution sample may be mixed with a selected quantity of diluent, to yield a second dilution sample. For example, 5 microliters of the first dilution sample may be mixed with 95 microliters of diluent, to yield a second dilution sample having an 100-fold dilution factor and an initial quantity of 100 microliters. For each of the above dilution steps, the original sample, dilution sample(s), and diluent may be stored or mixed in fluidically isolated vessels. Sequential dilutions may continue in the preceding manner for as many steps as needed to reach a selected sample dilution level/dilution factor.

In devices provided herein, an original sample may be diluted, for example, at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, or 100,000-fold, by either a single-step or serial dilution procedure. In some embodiments, a single original sample may be diluted to reach multiple different selected sample dilution factors (e.g. a single original sample may be diluted to generate samples which are diluted 5-fold, 10-fold, 25-fold, 100-fold, 200-fold, 500-fold, and 1000-fold). In some embodiments, a device may be configured to perform a 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more step serial dilution. A device may be configured to dilute 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more different original samples within the same device (e.g. a device may dilute both EDTA-containing and heparin-containing plasma samples at the same time). In some embodiments, a device provided herein contains a controller which is configured to instruct a sample handling system within the device to perform one or more sample handling steps to prepare any of the dilutions of sample described above or elsewhere herein. The controller may direct the device to use 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more different diluents for different dilution procedures. The controller may contain a protocol for performing the dilutions. The protocol may be stored or generated on-the-fly. The protocol may be sent from an external device to the sample processing device, or stored or generated on the sample processing device.

In some embodiments, one or more steps of a dilution procedure may be performed with a sample handling system. The sample handling system may be a pipette or other fluid handling apparatus. The sample handling system may be configured for obtaining a selected quantity of a sample or diluent from a fluidically isolated vessel containing the sample or diluent, and transporting the selected quantity of sample or diluent to a different fluidically isolated vessel. During the dilution of a sample, the diluent may be deposited in a vessel before the sample is added to the diluent. Alternatively, the sample may be deposited in a vessel before the diluent is added to the sample. In other embodiments, the sample and diluent may be in the same fluid circuit.

Dilution of samples may facilitate the performance of a large number of assays with a small amount of original sample. In some situations, dilution of an original sample into multiple dilution samples having different dilution factors may, for example: i) reduce waste of sample, for example, by only using the minimum amount of original sample required to perform each assay (i.e. by not using samples that are more concentrated than necessary to perform the assay); ii) increase the total number of assays that may be performed with a given amount of original sample, for example, by the reduction of waste of sample; and iii) increase the variety of assays that may be performed with an original sample, for example, by dilution of the original sample to different sample dilution factors, where different sample dilution factors are needed to perform different assays (for example, if one assay requires a high sample concentration in order to efficiently detect an analyte that is not abundant in the sample, and if another assay requires a low sample concentration in order to efficiently detect an analyte that is abundant in the sample).

Washing

The device and/or module may permit washing in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

A wash solution may be contained in one or more reagent unit, or any other unit that may contain and/or confine the wash solution. The wash solution may be provided in a tip, vessel, chamber, container, channel, tube, reservoir, or any other component of the device and/or module. A wash solution may be stored in a fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent component. The fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent component may be stationary or may be configured to move relative to one or more portion of the device and/or module.

In some embodiments, wash solution may be stored in wash units, which may have any characteristics of reagent units as described elsewhere herein. The wash units may be stored in the same location as the rest of the reagent units, or may be stored remotely relative to the rest of the reagent units.

Any examples of wash solutions known in the art may be employed. Wash solutions may be capable of removing unbound and/or unreacted reactants. For examples, a chemical reaction may occur between a sample containing an analyte and an immobilized reactant, that may cause an analyte to bind to a surface.

The unbound analytes may be washed away. In some embodiments, a reaction may cause the emission of an optical signal, light, or any other sort of signal. If unreacted reactants remain in the proximity, they may cause interfering background signal. It may be desirable to remove the unreacted reactants to reduce interfering background signal and permit the reading of the bound analytes. In some instances, the wash solution does not cause a chemical reaction to occur between the wash solution and the sample.

A device may employ one type of wash solutions. Alternatively, the device may have available or employ multiple types of wash solutions. The system may be capable of tracking wash solutions and/or various types of wash solutions. Thus, the system may be capable of accessing a desired type of wash solution. For example, a tip may pick up a desired wash solution.

In some embodiments, a wash solution may be provided to a sample. The wash solution may dilute the sample. The sample may become less concentrated with the addition of a wash solution. The degree of washing may be controlled according to one or more protocol or instructions. By controlling the degree of washing, the system may be capable of detecting the presence or concentration of one or more analytes with a desired sensitivity. For example, increased amounts of washing may remove undesirable reagents or sample that may cause interfering background noise.

In some embodiments, a wash solution may be provided to an assay tip or other type of tip described elsewhere herein. An assay tip may aspirate a wash solution. The assay tip may pick up the wash solutions from a wash unit. The wash solution may or may not be dispensed back out through the assay tip. The same opening of an assay tip may both aspirate and dispense the wash solution. For example, an assay tip may have a bottom opening that may be used to both pick up and expel a wash solution. The assay tip may have both a bottom opening and a top opening, where the bottom opening may have a smaller diameter than the top opening. Expelling the wash solution through the bottom opening may permit more effective expulsion of the wash solution than if the bottom of the assay tip were closed.

In another example, a wash solution and/or sample may be combined in a reagent unit or other types of vessels described elsewhere herein. For example, a wash solution may be added to a sample in a reagent unit, or a sample may be added to a wash solution in the reagent unit. The wash solution may be expelled in any manner. In some embodiments, a combination of the wash solution and/or sample may be picked up by an assay tip.

A desired amount of wash solution may be provided in accordance with one or more set of instructions. In some embodiments, the amount of wash solution provided may be controlled by a fluid handling system. For example, an assay tip may pick up a desired amount of wash solution and dispense it.

The volume of wash solution picked up by the assay tip may be controlled with a high degree of sensitivity.

For example, the amount of wash solution picked up may have any of the volumes of fluids or samples discussed elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, an assay tip may pick up a desired amount of wash solution in one turn. Alternatively, an assay tip may pick up and dispense wash solution multiple times in order to achieve a desired degree of washing.

Varying numbers of wash cycles may occur to provide a desired sensitivity of detection. Protocols may determine the number of wash cycles. For example, greater than, and/or equal to about one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, or twelve wash cycles may occur. The wash solution may be picked up from the wash unit using an assay tip, and may be expelled from the assay tip.

Washing may occur subsequent to undergoing a chemical reaction. Alternatively, washing may occur during a chemical reaction and/or prior to a chemical reaction.

Contamination Reduction

The device and/or module may permit contamination prevention and/or reduction in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. For example, a touch-off pad may be provided. The touch-off pad may be formed of an absorbent material. For example, the touch-off pad may be a sponge, textile, gel, porous material, capillary or have any feature that may absorb or wick away a fluid that may come into contact with the pad. An assay tip may be brought into contact with the touch-off pad, which may result in fluid from the assay tip in proximity to the touch-off pad being absorbed by the pad. In some embodiments, an assay tip may be brought to a touch-off pad in a manner such that the assay tip does not contact a portion of the pad that has previously been contacted. In some instances, liquid is not placed in the same place as a liquid has been previously touched off. The assay tips may be brought to the pad in a way so that the contact points are spaced apart so that a different contact point is used whenever an assay tip touches the pad. One or more controller may determine the location of the touch-off pad that an assay tip may contact next. The controller may keep track of what points on the pad have already been contacted by an assay tip. The assay pad may be absorbent.

The assay tip may be wiped by the pad. The excess fluid or undesired fluid from the assay tip may be removed from the assay tip. For example, an open end, such as a bottom end, of the assay tip may be brought into contact with the touch-off pad. The pad may be formed from an absorbent material that may wick the fluid away from the assay tip. Thus, as an assay tip, or other component of the device, may move throughout a module and/or device, the likelihood of excess fluid or undesired fluid from contaminating other portions of the module and/or device may be reduced. In one non-limiting example, an absorbent pad is part of the cartridge and it is configured to wick fluid away from tips, reducing carry over. In some embodiments, an absorbant pad may be any location in a device accessible by a sample handling system. Use of an absorbent pad with pipetting or other tip-related liquid transfer methods may increase the accuracy and precision of the fluid transfer and may lower the coefficient of variation of transferring fluid with the liquid transfer methods.

Another example of a contamination prevention and/or reduction mechanism may include applying a coating or covering to an assay tip or other component of the device. For example, an assay tip may be brought into contact with a melted wax, oil (such as mineral oil), or a gel. In some embodiments, the wax, oil, or gel may harden. Hardening may occur as the material cools and/or is exposed to air. Alternatively, they need not harden. The coating surface, such as a wax, oil, or gel, may be sufficiently viscous to remain on the assay tip or other component of the device. In one example, an open end of the assay tip may be brought into contact with the coating material, which may cover the open end of the assay tip, sealing the contents of the assay tip.

Additional examples of contamination prevention and/or reduction may be a waste chamber to accept used assay tips, a component that may put one or more cap on used portions of assay tips, a heater or fan, or ultraviolet light emitted onto one or more components or subsystems, or any other component that may reduce the likelihood of contamination any other component that may reduce the likelihood of contamination.

In some embodiments, the fluid handling components of the device do not require regular decontamination as the fixed components of the device do not normally come in direct contact with the sample. The fluid handling device may be capable of periodical self-sanitization, such as by aspirating cleaning agents (e.g., ethanol) from a tank using the pipette. The fluid handling apparatus, and other device resources, can also be decontaminated, sterilized, or disinfected by a variety of other methods, including UV irradiation.

Filter

The device and/or modules may include other components, which may permit one or more function as described elsewhere herein. For example, the device and/or module may have a filter that may permit the separation of a sample by particle size, density, or any other feature. For example, a particle or fluid having a particle size smaller than a threshold size may pass through a filter while other particles having a size greater than the threshold size do not. In some embodiments, a plurality of filters may be provided. The plurality of filters may have the same size or different sizes, which may permit sorting of different sizes of particles into any number of groups.

Centrifuge

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a system may include one or more centrifuge. A device may include one or more centrifuge therein. For example, one or more centrifuge may be provided within a device housing. A module may have one or more centrifuge. One, two, or more modules of a device may have a centrifuge therein. The centrifuge may be supported by a module support structure, or may be contained within a module housing. The centrifuge may have a form factor that is compact, flat and requires only a small footprint. In some embodiments, the centrifuge may be miniaturized for point-of-service applications but remain capable of rotating at high rates, equal to or exceeding about 10,000 rpm, and be capable of withstanding g-forces of up to about 1200 m/s² or more.

A centrifuge may be configured to accept one or more sample. A centrifuge may be used for separating and/or purifying materials of differing densities. Examples of such materials may include viruses, bacteria, cells, proteins, environmental compositions, or other compositions. A centrifuge may be used to concentrate cells and/or particles for subsequent measurement.

A centrifuge may have one or more cavity that may be configured to accept a sample. The cavity may be configured to accept the sample directly within the cavity, so that the sample may contact the cavity wall. Alternatively, the cavity may be configured to accept a sample vessel that may contain the sample therein. Any description herein of cavity may be applied to any configuration that may accept and/or contain a sample or sample container. For example, cavities may include indentations within a material, bucket formats, protrusions with hollow interiors, members configured to interconnect with a sample container. Any description of cavity may also include configurations that may or may not have a concave or interior surface.

Examples of sample vessels may include any of the vessel or tip designs described elsewhere herein. Sample vessels may have an interior surface and an exterior surface. A sample vessel may have at least one open end configured to accept the sample. The open end may be closeable or sealable. The sample vessel may have a closed end. The sample vessel may be a nozzle of the fluid handling apparatus, which apparatus may act as a centrifuge to spin a fluid in the nozzle, the tip or another vessel attached to such a nozzle.

A centrifuge may have one or more, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, eight or more, 10 or more, 12 or more, 15 or more, 20 or more, 30 or more, or 50 or more cavities configured to accept a sample or sample vessel.

In some embodiments, the centrifuge may be configured to accept a small volume of sample. In some embodiments, the cavity and/or sample vessel may be configured to accept a sample volume of 1,000 μL or less, 500 μL or less, 250 μL or less, 200 μL or less, 175 μL or less, 150 μL or less, 100 μL or less, 80 μL or less, 70 μL or less, 60 μL or less, 50 μL or less, 30 μL or less, 20 μL or less, 15 μL or less, 10 μL or less, 8 μL or less, 5 μL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 nL or less, 300 nL or less, 100 nL or less, 50 nL or less, 10 nL or less, 1 nL or less, 500 pL or less, 100 pL or less 50 pL or less, 10 pL or less 5 pL or less, or 1 pL or less. In some embodiments, centrifuge may be configured such that the total volume that the centrifuge is configured to accept (e.g. the combined volume that may be accepted by the total of all the cavities and/or sample vessels in the centrifuge) is 10 ml or less, 5 ml or less, 4 ml or less, 3 ml or less, 2 ml or less, 1 ml or less, 750 μl or less, 500 μl or less, 400 μl or less, 300 μl or less, 200 μl or less, 100 μl or less, 50 μl or less, 40 μl or less, 30 μl or less, 20 μl or less, 10 μl or less, 8 μl or less, 6 μl or less, 4 μl or less, or 2 μl or less. In some embodiments, the centrifuge may contain 50 or less, 40 or less, 30 or less, 29 or less, 28 or less, 27 or less, 26 or less, 25 or less, 24 or less, 23 or less, 22 or less, 21 or less, 20 or less, 19 or less, 18 or less, 17 or less, 16 or less, 15 or less, 14 or less, 13 or less, 12 or less, 11 or less, 10 or less, 9 or less, 8 or less, 7 or less, 6 or less, 5 or less, 4 or less, 3 or less, 2 or less, or 1 cavities and/or sample vessels, which are configured to accept, in total, a volume of 10 ml or less, 5 ml or less, 4 ml or less, 3 ml or less, 2 ml or less, 1 ml or less, 750 μl or less, 500 μl or less, 400 μl or less, 300 μl or less, 200 μl or less, 100 μl or less, 50 μl or less, 40 μl or less, 30 μl or less, 20 μl or less, 10 μl or less, 8 μl or less, 6 μl or less, 4 μl or less, or 2 μl or less.

In some embodiments, the centrifuge may have a cover that may contain the sample within the centrifuge. The cover may prevent the sample for aerosolizing and/or evaporating. The centrifuge may optionally have a film, oil (e.g., mineral oil), wax, or gel that may contain the sample within the centrifuge and/or prevent it from aerosolizing and/or evaporating. The film, oil, wax, or gel may be provided as a layer over a sample that may be contained within a cavity and/or sample vessel of the centrifuge.

A centrifuge may be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. A centrifuge may be able to spin at any number of rotations per minute. For example, a centrifuge may spin up to a rate of 100 rpm, 1,000 rpm, 2,000 rpm, 3,000 rpm, 5,000 rpm, 7,000 rpm, 10,000 rpm, 12,000 rpm, 15,000 rpm, 17,000 rpm, 20,000 rpm, 25,000 rpm, 30,000 rpm, 40,000 rpm, 50,000 rpm, 70,000 rpm, or 100,000 rpm. At some points in time, a centrifuge may remain at rest, while at other points in time, the centrifuge may rotate. A centrifuge at rest is not rotating. A centrifuge may be configured to rotate at variable rates. In some embodiments, the centrifuge may be controlled to rotate at a desirable rate. In some embodiments, the rate of change of rotation speed may be variable and/or controllable.

In some embodiments, the axis of rotation may be vertical. Alternatively, the axis of rotation may be horizontal, or may have any angle between vertical and horizontal (e.g., about 15, 30, 45, 60, or 75 degrees). In some embodiments, the axis of rotation may be in a fixed direction. Alternatively, the axis of rotation may vary during the use of a device. The axis of rotation angle may or may not vary while the centrifuge is rotating.

A centrifuge may comprise a base. The base may have a top surface and a bottom surface. The base may be configured to rotate about the axis of rotation. The axis of rotation may be orthogonal to the top and/or bottom surface of the base. In some embodiments, the top and/or bottom surface of the base may be flat or curved. The top and bottom surface may or may not be substantially parallel to one another.

In some embodiments, the base may have a circular shape. The base may have any other shape including, but not limited to, an elliptical shape, triangular shape, quadrilateral shape, pentagonal shape, hexagonal shape, or octagonal shape.

The base may have a height and one or more lateral dimension (e.g., diameter, width, or length). The height of the base may be parallel to the axis of rotation. The lateral dimension may be perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The lateral dimension of the base may be greater than the height. The lateral dimension of the base may be 2 times or more, 3 times or more, 4 times or more, 5 times or more, 6 times or more, 8 times or more, 10 times or more, 15 times or more, or 20 times or more greater than the height.

The centrifuge may have any size. For example, the centrifuge may have a footprint of about 200 cm² or less, 150 cm² or less, 100 cm² or less, 90 cm² or less, 80 cm² or less, 70 cm² or less, 60 cm² or less, 50 cm² or less, 40 cm² or less, 30 cm² or less, 20 cm² or less, 10 cm² or less, 5 cm² or less, or 1 cm² or less. The centrifuge may have a height of about 5 cm or less, 4 cm or less, 3 cm or less, 2.5 cm or less, 2 cm or less, 1.75 cm or less, 1.5 cm or less, 1 cm or less, 0.75 cm or less, 0.5 cm or less, or 0.1 cm or less. In some embodiments, the greatest dimension of the centrifuge may be about 15 cm or less, 10 cm or less, 9 cm or less, 8 cm or less, 7 cm or less, 6 cm or less, 5 cm or less, 4 cm or less, 3 cm or less, 2 cm or less, or 1 cm or less.

The centrifuge base may be configured to accept a drive mechanism. A drive mechanism may be a motor, or any other mechanism that may enable the centrifuge to rotate about an axis of rotation. The drive mechanism may be a brushless motor, which may include a brushless motor rotor and a brushless motor stator. The brushless motor may be an induction motor. The brushless motor rotor may surround the brushless motor stator. The rotor may be configured to rotate about a stator about an axis of rotation.

The base may be connected to or may incorporate the brushless motor rotor, which may cause the base to rotate about the stator. The base may be affixed to the rotor or may be integrally formed with the rotor. The base may rotate about the stator and a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the motor may be coplanar with a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the base. For example, the base may have a plane orthogonal to the base axis of rotation that passes substantially between the upper and lower surface of the base. The motor may have a plane orthogonal to the motor axis of rotation that passes substantially through the center of the motor. The base planes and motor planes may be substantially coplanar. The motor plane may pass between the upper and lower surface of the base.

A brushless motor assembly may include the rotor and stator. The motor assembly may include the electronic components. The integration of a brushless motor into the rotor assembly may reduce the overall size of the centrifuge assembly. In some embodiments, the motor assembly does not extend beyond the base height. In other embodiments, the height of the motor assembly is no greater than 1.5 times the height of the base, than twice the height of the base, than 2.5 times the height of the base, than three times the height of the base, than four times the height of the base, or five times the height of the base. The rotor may be surrounded by the base such that the rotor is not exposed outside the base.

The motor assembly may effect the rotation of the centrifuge without requiring a spindle/shaft assembly. The rotor may surround the stator which may be electrically connected to a controller and/or power source.

In some embodiments, the cavity may be configured to have a first orientation when the base is at rest, and a second orientation when the base is rotating. The first orientation may be a vertical orientation and a second orientation may be a horizontal orientation. The cavity may have any orientation, where the cavity may be more than and/or equal to about 0 degrees, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, or 90 degrees from vertical and/or the axis of rotation. In some embodiments, the first orientation may be closer to vertical than the second orientation. The first orientation may be closer to parallel to the axis of rotation than the second orientation. Alternatively, the cavity may have the same orientation regardless of whether the base is at rest or rotating. The orientation of the cavity may or may not depend on the speed at which the base is rotating.

The centrifuge may be configured to accept a sample vessel, and may be configured to have the sample vessel at a first orientation when the base is at rest, and have the sample vessel at a second orientation when the base is rotating. The first orientation may be a vertical orientation and a second orientation may be a horizontal orientation. The sample vessel may have any orientation, where the sample vessel may be more than and/or equal to about 0 degrees, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, or 90 degrees from vertical. In some embodiments, the first orientation may be closer to vertical than the second orientation. Alternatively, the sample vessel may have the same orientation regardless of whether the base is at rest or rotating. The orientation of the vessel may or may not depend on the speed at which the base is rotating.

A sample may be dispensed and/or picked up from the cavity. The sample may be dispensed and/or picked up using a fluid handling system. The fluid handling system may be the pipette described elsewhere herein, or any other fluid handling system known in the art. The sample may be dispensed and/or picked up using a tip, having any of the configurations described elsewhere herein. The dispensing and/or aspiration of a sample may be automated.

In some embodiments, a sample vessel may be provided to or removed from a centrifuge. The sample vessel may be inserted or removed from the centrifuge using a device in an automated process. The sample vessel may extend from the surface of the centrifuge, which may simplify automated pick up and/or retrieval. A sample may already be provided within the sample vessel. Alternatively, a sample may be dispensed and/or picked up from the samples vessel. The sample may be dispensed and/or picked up from the sample vessel using the fluid handling system.

In some embodiments, a tip from the fluid handling system may be inserted at least partially into the sample vessel and/or cavity. The tip may be insertable and removable from the sample vessel and/or cavity. In some embodiments the sample vessel and the tip may be the centrifugation vessel and centrifugation tip as previously described, or have any other vessel or tip configuration. In some embodiments, a cuvette, such as described in FIGS. 27A and 27B can be placed in the centrifuge rotor. This configuration may offer certain advantages over traditional tips and/or vessels. In some embodiments, the cuvettes may be patterned with one or more channels with specialized geometries such that products of the centrifugation process are automatically separated into separate compartments. One such embodiment might be a cuvette with a tapered channel ending in a compartment separated by a narrow opening. The supernatant (e.g. plasma from blood) can be forced into the compartment by centrifugal forces, while the red blood cells remain in the main channel. The cuvette may be more complicated with several channels and/or compartments. The channels may be either isolated or connected.

In some embodiments, one or more cameras may be placed in the centrifuge rotor such that it can image the contents of the centrifuge vessel while the rotor is spinning. The camera images may be analyzed and/or communicated in real time, such as by using a wireless communication method. This method may be used to track the rate of sedimentation/cell packing, such as for the ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) assay, where the speed of RBC (red blood cell) settling is measured. In some embodiments, one or more cameras may be positioned outside the rotor that can image the contents of the centrifuge vessel while the rotor is spinning. This may be achieved by using a strobed light source that is timed with the camera and spinning rotor. Real-time imaging of the contents of a centrifuge vessel while the rotor is spinning may allow one to stop spinning the rotor after the centrifugation process has completed, saving time and possibly preventing over-packing and/or over-separation of the contents.

Referring now to FIG. 46, one embodiment of a centrifuge with a sample imaging system will now be described. FIG. 46 shows that, in some embodiments, the imaging device 3750 such as but not limited to a camera, a CCD sensor, or the like may be used with a centrifuge rotor 3800. In this example, the imaging device 3750 is stationary while the centrifuge rotor 3800 is spinning. Imaging may be achieved by using a strobed light source that is timed with the camera and spinning rotor. Optionally, high speed image capture can also be used to acquire images without the use of a strobe.

FIG. 47 shows one embodiment of the imaging device 3750 that can be mounted in a stationary position to view the centrifuge vessel while it is spinning in the centrifuge. FIG. 47 shows that in addition to the imaging device 3750, illumination source(s) 3752 and 3754 may also be used to assist in image capture. The mounting device 3756 is configured to position the imaging device 3750 to have a field of view and focus that enables a clear view of the centrifuge vessel and content therein.

Referring now to FIGS. 48 to 50, yet another embodiment of a centrifuge with a sample imaging system will now be described. FIG. 48 shows that, in some embodiments, the imaging device 3770 such as but not limited to a camera, a CCD sensor, or the like may be mounted inside or in the same rotation frame of reference as the centrifuge rotor 3800. FIG. 49 shows a cross-sectional view showing that the imaging device 3770 is positioned to view into the sample in the centrifuge vessel 3772 through an opening 3774 (shown in FIG. 50). Because the imaging system is in the centrifuge rotor 3800, the imaging system can continuously image the centrifuge vessel 3772 and the sample therein without the use of a strobe illumination system. Optionally, the centrifuge rotor 3800 can be appropriately balanced to account for the additional weight of the imaging device 3770 in the rotor.

Thermal Control Unit

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a system may include one or more thermal control unit. A device may include one or more thermal control unit therein. For example, one or more thermal control unit may be provided within a device housing. A module may have one or more thermal control unit. One, two, or more modules of a device may have a thermal control unit therein. The thermal control unit may be supported by a module support structure, or may be contained within a module housing. A thermal control unit may be provided at a device level (e.g., overall across all modules within a device), rack level (e.g., overall across all modules within a rack), module level (e.g., within a module), and/or component level (e.g., within one or more components of a module).

A thermal control unit may be configured to heat and/or cool a sample or other fluid or module temperature or temperature of the entire device. Any discussion of controlling the temperature of a sample may also refer to any other fluid herein, including but not limited to reagents, diluents, dyes, or wash fluid. In some embodiments, separate thermal control unit components may be provided to heat and cool the sample. Alternatively, the same thermal control unit components may both heat and cool the sample.

The thermal control unit may be used to vary and/or maintain the temperature of a sample to keep the sample at a desire temperature or within a desired temperature range. In some embodiments, the thermal control unit may be capable of maintaining the sample within 1 degree C. of a target temperature. In other embodiments, the thermal control unit may be capable of maintaining the sample within 5 degrees C., 4 degrees C., 3 degrees C., 2 degrees C., 1.5 degrees C., 0.75 degrees C., 0.5 degrees C., 0.3 degrees C., 0.2 degrees C., 0.1 degrees C., 0.05 degrees C., or 0.01 degrees C. of the target temperature. A desired target temperature may be programmed. The desired target temperature may vary or may be maintained over time. A target temperature profile may account for variations in desired target temperature over time. The target temperature profile may be provided dynamically from an external device, such as a server, may be provided from on-board the device, or may be entered by an operator of the device.

The thermal control unit may be able to account for temperatures external to the device. For example, one or more temperature sensor may determine the environmental temperature external to the device. The thermal control unit may operate to reach a target temperature, compensating for different external temperatures.

The target temperature may remain the same or may vary over time. In some embodiments, the target temperature may vary in a cyclic manner. In some embodiments, the target temperature may vary for a while and then remain the same. In some embodiments, the target temperature may follow a profile as known in the art for nucleic acid amplification. The thermal control unit may control the sample temperature to follow the profile known for nucleic acid amplification. In some embodiments, the temperature may be in the range of about 30-40 degrees Celsius. In some instances, the range of temperature is about 0-100 degrees Celsius. For example, for nucleic acid assays, temperatures up to 100 degrees Celsius can be achieved. In an embodiment, the temperature range is about 15-50 degrees Celsius. In some embodiments, the temperature may be used to incubate one or more sample.

The thermal control unit may be capable of varying the temperature of one or more sample quickly. For example, the thermal control unit may ramp the sample temperature up or down at a rate of more than and/or equal to 1 C/min, 5 C/min, 10 C/min, 15 C/min, 30 C/min, 45 C/min, 1 C/sec, 2 C/sec, 3 C/sec, 4 C/sec, 5 C/sec, 7 C/sec, or 10 C/sec.

A thermal control unit of the system can comprise a thermoelectric device. In some embodiments, the thermal control unit can be a heater. A heater may provide active heating. In some embodiments, voltage and/or current provided to the heater may be varied or maintained to provide a desired amount of heat. A thermal control unit may be a resistive heater. The heater may be a thermal block. In one embodiment, a thermal block is used in a nucleic acid assay station to regulate the temperature of reactions.

A thermal block may have one or many openings to enable incorporation of detectors and/or light sources. Thermal blocks may have openings for imaging of contents. Openings in thermal blocks can be filled and/or covered to improve thermal properties of the block.

The heater may or may not have components that provide active cooling. In some embodiments, the heater may be in thermal communication with a heat sink. The heat sink may be passively cooled, and may permit heat to dissipate to the surrounding environment. Is some embodiments, the heat sink or the heater may be actively cooled, such as with forced fluid flow. The heat sink may or may not contain one or more surface feature such as fins, ridges, bumps, protrusions, grooves, channels, holes, plates, or any other feature that may increase the surface area of the heat sink. In some embodiments, one or more fan or pump may be used to provide forced fluid cooling.

In some embodiments, the thermal control unit can be a Peltier device or may incorporate a Peltier device. The thermal control unit may optionally incorporate fluid flow to provide temperature control. For example, one or more heated fluid or cooled fluid may be provided to the thermal control unit. In some embodiments, heated and/or cooled fluid may be contained within the thermal control unit or may flow through the thermal control unit. Air temperature control can be enhanced by the use of heat pipes to rapidly raise temperature to a desired level. By using forced convection, heat transfer can be made faster. Forced convective heat transfer could also be used to thermocycle certain regions by alternately blowing hot and cold air. Reactions requiring specific temperatures and temperature cycling can be done on a tip and/or vessel, where heating and cooling of the tip is finely controlled, such as by an IR heater.

In some embodiments, a thermal control unit may use conduction, convection and/or radiation to provide heat to, or remove heat from a sample. In some embodiments, the thermal control unit may be in direct physical contact with a sample or sample holder. The thermal control unit may be in direct physical contact with a vessel, tip, microcard, or housing for a vessel, tip, or microcard. The thermal control unit may contact a conductive material that may be in direct physical contact with a sample or sample holder. For example, the thermal control unit may contact a conductive material that may be in direct physical contact with a vessel, tip, microcard, or a housing to support a vessel, tip, or microcard. In some embodiments, the thermal control unit may be formed of or include a material of high thermal conductivity. For example, the thermal control unit may include a metal such as copper, aluminum, silver, gold, steel, brass, iron, titanium, nickel or any combination or alloy thereof. For example, the thermal control unit can include a metal block. In some embodiments, the thermal control unit may include a plastic or ceramic material.

One or more samples may be brought to and/or removed from the thermal control unit. In some embodiments, the samples may be brought to and/or removed from the thermal control unit using a fluid handling system. The samples may be brought to and/or removed from the thermal control unit using any other automated process. The samples may be transported to and from the thermal control unit without requiring human intervention. In some embodiments, the samples may be manually transferred to or from the thermal control unit.

The thermal control unit may be configured to be in thermal communication with a sample of a small volume. For example, the thermal control unit may be configured to be thermal communication with a sample with a volume as described elsewhere herein.

The thermal control unit may be in thermal communication with a plurality of samples. In some instances, the thermal control unit may keep each of the same samples at the same temperature relative to one another. In some instances, a thermal control unit may be thermally connected to a heat spreader which may evenly provide heat to the plurality of samples.

In other embodiments, the thermal control unit may provide different amounts of heat to the plurality of samples. For example, a first sample may be kept at a first target temperature, and a second sample may be kept at a second target temperature. The thermal control unit may form a temperature gradient. In some instances, separate thermal control units may keep different samples at different temperatures, or operating along separate target temperature profiles. A plurality of thermal control units may be independently operable.

One or more sensor may be provided at or near the thermal control unit. One or more sensor may be provided at or near a sample in thermal communication with the thermal control unit. In some embodiments, the sensor may be a temperature sensor. Any temperature sensor known in the art may be used including, but not limited to thermometers, thermocouples, or IR sensors. A sensor may provide one or more signal to a controller. Based on the signal, the controller may send a signal to the thermal control unit to modify (e.g., increase or decrease) or modify the temperature of the sample. In some embodiments, the controller may directly control the thermal control unit to modify or maintain the sample temperature. The controller may be separate from the thermal control unit or may be a part of the thermal control unit.

In some embodiments, the sensors may provide a signal to a controller on a periodic basis. In some embodiments, the sensors may provide real-time feedback to the controller. The controller may adjust the thermal control unit on a periodic basis or in real-time in response to the feedback.

As previously mentioned, the thermal control unit may be used for nucleic acid amplification (e.g., isothermal and non-isothermal nucleic acid amplification, such as PCR), incubation, evaporation control, condensation control, achieving a desired viscosity, separation, or any other use known in the art.

Nucleic Acid Assay Station

In some embodiments, a system, device, or module disclosed herein may contain a nucleic acid assay station. A nucleic acid assay station may contain one or more hardware components for facilitating the performance of nucleic acid assays (e.g. a thermal control unit). A nucleic acid assay station may also contain one or more detection units or sensors for monitoring or measuring non-nucleic acid assays (e.g. general chemistry assays, immunoassays, etc.). A nucleic acid assay station may be incorporated with or may be separate from a cartridge or general assay station of a module or device. A nucleic acid assay station may also be referred herein to as a “nucleic acid amplification module.”

FIG. 51 shows an example of a nucleic acid assay station 10201. A nucleic acid assay station 10201 may contain a thermal block 10202. The thermal block 10202 may be shaped to receive or support one or more vessels 10203 (including assay units, tips, and any nucleic acid vessel/tip disclosed elsewhere herein), such as by having wells. The thermal block may have any of the features of a thermal control unit described elsewhere herein. For example, the thermal block may maintain a selected temperature or range or cycle of temperatures in order to perform or support a nucleic acid assay (e.g. to thermocycle for a PCR assay or to maintain a selected constant temperature for an isothermal assay). In some embodiments, the thermal block may be in thermal contact with a heater or thermal control unit, such that the thermal block itself does not contain components for regulating heat. Instead, the temperature of the thermal block may be regulated by the temperature of the heater or thermal control unit in thermal contact with the heating block.

A nucleic acid assay station may be configured to receive 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, 300, 400, 500, or more vessels. In some embodiments, a thermal block may contain 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 275, 300, 400, 500, or more wells. A nucleic acid assay station may be positioned in a device or module such that it may be accessed by a sample handling system of the device or module. For example, a sample handling system of a device or module may be configured to transport vessels to or from a nucleic acid assay station.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station 10201 may contain a movable portion 10204. The moveable portion may be configured for movement along a guide structure of the station, such as a track 10205 or guide rod. The moveable portion may have two or more positions, including an open position and a closed position. When the movable portion 10204 is in an open position, the wells of a thermal block 10202 may be accessible, so that vessels may be placed in or removed from the thermal block (e.g. by a sample handling system). In contrast, when the movable portion 10204 is in a closed position, it may obstruct one or more wells of the thermal block 10202, such that vessels cannot be placed in or removed from the thermal block.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may contain one or more light sources. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may contain the same number of light sources as number of vessels as the station is configured to receive (e.g. if the station is configured to receive 10 vessels, it contains 10 light sources). The light source may be any light source disclosed elsewhere herein, including, for example a laser or a light-emitting diode. The light source(s) may be configured such that it is in a fixed position relative to a thermal block or vessel wells. A light source may be in-line with a well of the thermal block, or it may be to the side (e.g. at a 90 degree angle). Alternatively, the light source(s) may be movable relative to the thermal block or other components of the nucleic acid assay station. The light source(s) may be supported by a moveable portion of the station. In some embodiments, when the movable portion is in a closed position, light sources(s) supported by the movable portion are positioned such that light from the light source(s) is directed to the wells of a thermal block or the vessels therein. In some embodiments, one or more components of the nucleic acid assay station may be moveable relative to the light source.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may contain one or more optical sensors. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may contain the same number of optical sensors as number of vessels as the station is configured to receive (e.g. if the station is configured to receive 10 vessels, it contains 10 optical sensors). The optical sensor may be any sensor for detecting light signals disclosed elsewhere herein, including, for example a PMT, photodiode, or CCD sensor. The optical sensor may be configured such that it is in a fixed position relative to a thermal block or vessel wells. An optical sensor may be in-line with a well of the thermal block, or it may be to the side (e.g. at a 90 degree angle). Alternatively, the optical sensors(s) may be movable relative to the thermal block or other components of the nucleic acid assay station. The optical sensors (s) may be supported by a moveable portion of the station. In some embodiments, when the movable portion is in a closed position, optical sensors (s) supported by the movable portion are positioned such that light generated from or passing through the wells of a thermal block or the vessels therein may reach the optical sensor. In some embodiments, one or more components of the nucleic acid assay station may be moveable relative to the optical sensor.

A nucleic acid assay station may contain both a light source and an optical sensor. Stations containing both a light source and an optical sensor may have capabilities similar to a spectrophotometer. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station containing both a light source and optical sensor may be configured to perform a measurement involving assessing an optical property of a sample which is typically performed in a dedicated spectrophotometer—for example, measurement of: color, absorbance, transmittance, fluorescence, light-scattering properties, or turbidity of a sample. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station containing both a light source and optical sensor can perform a measurement of a sample that only uses the optical sensor—e.g. measurement of the luminescence of a sample. In such situations, the light source of the station may be turned off or blocked while the optical sensor detects light emitted from the sample. Assay types that may be measured include, for example, nucleic acid assays, immunoassays, and general chemistry assays.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may contain an optical sensor and optionally, a light source for each well of the heating block or station. Inclusion of an optical sensor for each well may permit the simultaneous measurement of multiple different assays in the nucleic acid assay station at the same time.

In some embodiments, nucleic acid assay station may contain an optical sensor at a fixed position in or adjacent to the thermal block. The optical sensor may be in-line with the well of a thermal block, or to the side of the well of the thermal block. There may be an opening or a channel in the wall of the well of thermal block creating an optical path between the interior of the well and the optical sensor. The nucleic acid assay station may also contain a light source. The light source may be attached to a movable portion of the assay station, configured such that in one or more positions of the movable portion, the light from the light source is directed into the well of the thermal block. In situations where the light source and the optical sensor are both in-line with the well of the thermal block (due to the light source and optical sensor having fixed or movable positions), various types of spectrophotometric readings of the sample may be obtained—e.g. absorbance, transmittance, or fluorescence. In situations where the optical sensor is at an angle to the light source and the well of the thermal block, spectrophotometric readings of the sample that may be obtained include, for instance, light scattering, fluorescence, and turbidity.

To perform fluorescence assays in a nucleic acid assay station, a light source having a narrow emission wavelength profile may be used (e.g. a light emitting diode). In addition or alternatively, an excitation filter may be placed between the light source and the sample, such that light of only a selected wavelength(s) reaches the sample. Furthermore, an emissions filter may be placed between the sample and the optical detector, such that only light of a selected wavelength (typically that which is emitted by the fluorescent compound) reaches the optical detector.

In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay (e.g. a nucleic acid amplification assay) may be performed or detected in a nucleic acid assay station. Given the various optical configurations of nucleic acid assay stations, the stations can be configured to measure nucleic acid amplification assays which result in multiple different types of optical changes in the reaction, such as fluorescence or turbidity. In addition, in some embodiments, any type of assay resulting in a change in optical properties of the sample may be measured in a nucleic acid assay station. For example, a non-nucleic acid assay resulting in a change of turbidity of a sample may be measured in a nucleic acid assay station, by measuring, for example, the absorbance of the sample or the light scattered by the sample. In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may have certain wells of the thermal block configured for measurement of fluorescence of samples (e.g. they may contain filters or light sources of particular wavelengths), and certain wells of the thermal block configured for measurement of turbidity of samples (e.g. they may have optical sensors at an angle to the light source and well or they may lack filters). In some embodiments, a nucleic acid assay station may have one or more wells that are configured for detecting nucleic acid assays, and one or more wells that are configured for detecting non-nucleic acid assays.

In some embodiments, assay units or other reaction vessels described elsewhere herein may be transported to or situated in a nucleic acid assay station described herein for measurement of the reaction in the vessel. Accordingly, in addition to supporting nucleic acid assays, a nucleic acid assay station may function as a detection unit for a wide range of assays (e.g. immunoassays and general chemistry assays). This may facilitate performing and detecting multiple different assays simultaneously in a module or device provided herein.

Cytometer

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a system may include one or more cytometer. A device may include one or more cytometer therein. For example, one or more cytometer may be provided within a device housing. A module may have one or more cytometer. One, two, or more modules of a device may have a cytometer therein. The cytometer may be supported by a module support structure, or may be contained within a module housing. Alternatively, the cytometer may be provided external to the module. In some instances, a cytometer may be provided within a device and may be shared by multiple modules. The cytometer may have any configuration known or later developed in the art.

In some embodiments, the cytometer may have a small volume. For example, the cytometer may have a volume of less than or equal to about 0.1 mm³, 0.5 mm³, 1 mm³, 3 mm³, 5 mm³, 7 mm³, 10 mm³, 15 mm³, 20 mm³, 25 mm³, 30 mm³, 40 mm³, 50 mm³, 60 mm³, 70 mm³, 80 mm³, 90 mm³, 100 mm³, 125 mm³, 150 mm³, 200 mm³, 250 mm³, 300 mm³, 500 mm³, 750 mm³, or 1 m³.

The cytometer may have a footprint of about less than or equal to 0.1 mm², 0.5 mm², 1 mm², 3 mm², 5 mm², 7 mm², 10 mm², 15 mm², 20 mm², 25 mm², 30 mm², 40 mm², 50 mm², 60 mm², 70 mm², 80 mm², 90 mm², 100 mm², 125 mm², 150 mm², 200 mm², 250 mm², 300 mm², 500 mm², 750 mm², or 1 m². The cytometer may have one or more dimension (e.g., width, length, height) of less than or equal to 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 11 mm, 12 mm, 13 mm, 15 mm, 17 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, 150 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm, 500 mm, or 750 mm.

The cytometer may accept a small volume of sample or other fluid. For example, the cytometer may accept a volume of sample of about 500 μL or less, 250 μL or less, 200 μL or less, 175 μL or less, 150 μL or less, 100 μL or less, 80 μL or less, 70 μL or less, 60 μL or less, 50 μL or less, 30 μL or less, 20 μL or less, 15 μL or less, 10 μL or less, 8 μL or less, 5 μL or less, 1 μL or less, 500 nL or less, 300 nL or less, 100 nL or less, 50 nL or less, 10 nL or less, 1 nL or less, 500 pL or less, 250 pL or less, 100 pL or less, 50 pL or less, 10 pL or less, 5 pL or less, or 1 pL or less.

The cytometer may utilize one or more illumination techniques, including but not limited to bright field, dark field, forward illumination, oblique illumination, back illumination, phase contrast and differential interference contrast microscopy. Focusing may be achieved using any of the illumination sources, including but not limited to dark field imaging. Dark field imaging may be performed with a various illumination sources of different wavelength bands. Dark field imaging may be performed with a light guide outside the objective. Images produced by the imaging system may be monochromatic and/or color. The imaging system may be configured to be optics free, reducing cost and size.

The cytometer (as well as other modules) can be configured to incorporate image processing algorithms to extract quantitative information from images of cells and other elements in the sample to enable computation of reportables. Where employed, the image processing and analysis may include but are not limited to: a) image acquisition, compression/decompression and quality improvement, b) image segmentation, c) image stitching, and d) extraction of quantitative information.

Detection Unit

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a system may include one or more detection unit. In some embodiments, a detection station provided herein may contain a detection unit. A device may include one or more detection unit therein. For example, one or more detection unit may be provided within a device housing. A module may have one or more detection unit. One, two, or more modules of a device may have a detection unit therein. The detection unit may be supported by a module support structure, or may be contained within a module housing. Alternatively, the detection unit may be provided external to the module.

The detection unit may be used to detect a signal produced by at least one assay on the device. The detection unit may be used to detect a signal produced at one or more sample preparation station in a device. The detection unit may be capable of detecting a signal produced at any stage in a sample preparation or assay of the device.

In some embodiments, a plurality of detection units may be provided. The plurality of detection units may operate simultaneously and/or in sequence. The plurality of detection units may include the same types of detection units and/or different types of detection units. The plurality of detection units may operate on a synchronized schedule or independently of one another.

In some embodiments, systems, devices, or modules provided herein may have multiple types of detection units, which may be in one or more detection stations. For example, a system, device or module provided herein may contain one or more, two or more, three or more, or all four of: i) a dedicated spectrophotometer (for example, a spectrophotometer as described in FIG. 31); ii) a light sensor which is not specially configured to operate with a light source (for example, a PMT or photodiode which is not part of a spectrophotometer); iii) a camera (for example, containing a CCD or CMOS sensor); and iv) a nucleic acid assay station containing or operatively coupled to a light source and a light sensor, such that it may function as a spectrophotometer. In some embodiments, a system, device, or module provided herein may further contain a cytometry station containing an imaging device. In some embodiments, one, two, three, four, or all five of the above may be integrated in a single detection station. The single detections station may be configured to simultaneously measure multiple different assays at the same time.

The detection unit may be above the component from which the signal is detected, beneath the component from which the signal is detected, to the side of the component from which the signal is detected, or integrated into the component from which the signal is detected, or may have different orientation in relation to the component from which the signal is detected. For example, the detection unit may be in communication with an assay unit. The detection unit may be proximate to the component from which the signal is detected, or may be remote to the component from which the signal is detected. The detection unit may be within one or more mm, one or more cm, one or more 10s of cm from which the component from which the signal is detected.

The detection unit may have a fixed position, or may be movable. The detection unit may be movable relative to a component from which a signal is to be detected. For example, the detection unit can be moved into communication with an assay unit or the assay unit can be moved into communication with the detection unit. In one example, a sensor is provided to locate an assay unit relative to a detector when an assay is detected.

A detection unit may include one or more optical or visual sensor or sonic or magnetic or radioactivity sensor or some combination of these. For example, a detection unit may include microscopy, visual inspection, via photographic film, or may include the use of electronic detectors such as digital cameras, charge coupled devices (CCDs), super-cooled CCD arrays, photodetector or other detection device. An optical detector may further include non-limiting examples include a photodiode, photomultiplier tube (PMT), photon counting detector, or avalanche photo diode, avalanche photodiode arrays. In some embodiments a pin diode may be used. In some embodiments a pin diode can be coupled to an amplifier to create a detection device with a sensitivity comparable to a PMT. Some assays may generate luminescence as described herein. In some embodiments fluorescence or chemiluminescence is detected. In some embodiments a detection assembly could include a plurality of fiber optic cables connected as a bundle to a CCD detector or to a PMT array. The fiber optic bundle could be constructed of discrete fibers or of many small fibers fused together to form a solid bundle. Such solid bundles are commercially available and easily interfaced to CCD detectors. In some embodiments, fiber optic cables may be directly incorporated into assay or reagent units. For example, samples or tips as described elsewhere herein may incorporate fiber optic cables. In some embodiments, electronic sensors for detection or analysis (such as image processing) may be built into the pipette or other component of the fluid handling system. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a PMT. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a photodiode. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a spectrophotometer. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a nucleic acid assay station containing or operatively coupled to a light source and an optical sensor. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a camera. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be an imaging device. In some embodiments, a detection unit may be a cytometry station containing a microscopy stage and an imaging device. In some embodiments, a detection unit containing a CCD or CMOS sensor may be configured to obtain a digital image, such as of a sample, assay unit, cuvette, assay, the device, or the device surroundings. The digital image may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. The digital image may be a single image or a collection of images, including video. In some instances, digital imaging may be used by the device or system for control or monitoring of the device, it surroundings, or processes within the device.

One or more detection units may be configured to detect a detectable signal, which can be a light signal, including but not limited to photoluminescence, electroluminescence, sonoluminescence, chemiluminescence, fluorescence, phosphorescence, polarization, absorbance, turbidity or scattering. In some embodiments, one or more label may be employed during a chemical reaction. The label may permit the generation of a detectable signal. Methods of detecting labels are well known to those of skill in the art. Thus, for example, where the label is a radioactive label, means for detection may include a scintillation counter or photographic film as in autoradiography. Where the label is a fluorescent label, it may be detected by exciting the fluorochrome with the appropriate wavelength of light and detecting the resulting fluorescence by, for example, microscopy, visual inspection, via photographic film, by the use of electronic detectors such as digital cameras, charge coupled devices (CCDs) or photomultipliers and phototubes, or other detection device. In some embodiments, imaging devices may be used, such as cameras. In some instances, cameras may use CCDs, CMOS, may be lensless cameras (e.g., Frankencamera), microlens-array cameras, open-source cameras, or may use or any other visual detection technology known or later developed in the art. Cameras may acquire non-conventional images, e.g. holographic images, tomographic or interferometric, Fourier-transformed spectra, which may then be interpreted with or without the aid of computational methods. Cameras may include one or more feature that may focus the camera during use, or may capture images that can be later focused. In some embodiments, imaging devices may employ 2-d imaging, 3-d imaging, and/or 4-d imaging (incorporating changes over time). Imaging devices may capture static images. The optical schemes used to achieve 3-D and 4-D imaging may be one or more of the several known to those skilled in the art, e.g. structured illumination microscopy (SLM), digital holographic microscopy (DHM), confocal microscopy, light field microscopy etc. The static images may be captured at one or more point in time. The imaging devices may also capture video and/or dynamic images. The video images may be captured continuously over one or more periods of time. An imaging device may collect signal from an optical system which scans the sample in arbitrary scan patterns (e.g. raster scan). In some embodiments, the imaging device may use one or more component of the device in capturing the image. For example, the imaging device may use a tip and/or vessel to assist with capturing the image. The tip and/or vessel may function as an optic to assist in capturing an image.

Detection units may also be capable of capturing audio signals. The audio signals may be captured in conjunction with one or more image. Audio signals may be captured and/or associated with one or more static image or video images. Alternatively, the audio signals may be captured separate from the image.

In one example, a PMT may be used as a detector. In some instances, count rates as low as 100 per second and count rates as high as 10,000,000 may be measurable. The linear response range of PMTs (for example, the range where count rate is directly proportional to number of photons per unit time) can be about 1000-3,000,000 counts per second. In an example, an assay has a detectable signal on the low end of about 200-1000 counts per second and on the high end of about 10,000-2,000,000 counts per second. In some instances for protein biomarkers, the count rate is directly proportional to alkaline phosphatase bound to the capture surface and also directly proportional to the analyte concentration.

In another example, a detector may include a camera that may be imaging in real-time. Alternatively, the camera may take snapshots at selected time intervals or when triggered by an event. Similarly, the camera may take video at selected time intervals or when triggered by an event. In some embodiments, the camera may image a plurality of samples simultaneously. Alternatively, the camera may image a selected view, and then move on to a next location for a different selected view.

A detection unit may have an output that is digital and generally a one-to-one or one-to-many transformation of the detected signal, e.g., the image intensity value is an integer proportional to a positive power of the number of photons reaching the camera sensor over the time of exposure. Alternatively, the detection unit may output an analog signal. The detectable range for exemplary detectors can be suitable to the detector being used.

The detection unit may be capable of capturing and/or imaging a signal from anywhere along the electromagnetic spectrum. For example, a detection unit may be capable of capturing and/or imaging visible signals, infra-red signals, near infra-red signals, far infra-red signals, ultraviolet signals, gamma rays, microwaves, and/or other signals. The detection unit may be capable of capturing acoustic waves over a large range of frequencies, e.g. audio, ultrasound. The detection unit may be capable of measuring magnetic fields with a wide range of magnitude.

An optical detector can also comprise a light source, such as an electric bulb, incandescent bulb, electroluminescent lamp, laser, laser diode, light emitting diode (LED), gas discharge lamp, high-intensity discharge lamp, natural sunlight, chemiluminescent light sources. Other examples of light sources as provided elsewhere herein. The light source can illuminate a component in order to assist with detecting the results. For example, the light source can illuminate an assay in order to detect the results. For example, the assay can be a fluorescence assay or an absorbance assay, as are commonly used with nucleic acid assays. The detector can also comprise optics to deliver the light source to the assay, such as a lens, mirror, scanning or galvano-mirror, prisms, fiber optics, or liquid light guides. The detector can also comprise optics to deliver light from an assay to a detection unit. In some embodiments, a light source can be coupled to an optical detector/sensor which is configured primarily for the detection of luminescent assays, in order to expand the range of types of assays that may be detected by the optical sensor (e.g. to include absorbance, fluorescence, turbidity, and colorimetry assays, etc.).

An optical detection unit may be used to detect one or more optical signal. For example, the detection unit may be used to detect a reaction providing luminescence. The detection unit may be used to detect a reaction providing fluorescence, chemiluminescence, photoluminescence, electroluminescence, color change, sonoluminescence, absorbance, turbidity, or polarization. The detection unit may be able to detect optical signals relating to color intensity and phase or spatial or temporal gradients thereof. For example, the detection unit may be configured to detect selected wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths. The optical detection unit may be configured to move over the sample and a mirror could be used to scan the sample simultaneously.

In some embodiments, an assay provided herein generating a particular type of result (e.g. luminescence, turbidity, color change/colorimetry, etc.) may be monitored by different types or configurations of detection units provided herein. For example, in some situations, an assay resulting in a turbid reaction product may be monitored in: i) a dedicated spectrophotometer, ii) a nucleic acid assay station containing or operatively coupled to a light source and a optical sensor, or iii) a detection unit containing a CCD sensor (e.g. a stand-alone imaging device containing a CCD sensor, or a cytometry station containing an imaging device containing a CCD sensor). In both detection unit configurations i) and ii), the sample may be positioned in the detection unit between the respective light source and the respective optical sensor, such that I₀ (incident radiation) and I₁ (transmitted radiation) values may be measured at one or more selected wavelengths, and absorbance calculated. In detection unit configuration iii), an image of the sample may be obtained by the CCD sensor, and further processed by image analysis. In some embodiments, a sample may be monitored in more than one of the above detection units. In another example, in some situations, an assay resulting in a chemiluminescent signal may be monitored by i) a photodiode or other luminescence sensor, ii) a nucleic acid assay station containing or operatively coupled to a light source and an optical sensor, or iii) a detection unit containing a CCD sensor. In configuration i) the photodiode detects light from the chemiluminescent reaction. In some situations, the photodiode may be configured to sense very low levels of light, and thus may be used with assays which result in only a low level of chemiluminescence. In configuration ii) the assay (including non-nucleic acid amplification assays) may be placed in the nucleic acid amplification module, and the optical sensor within the station may be used to detect light from the chemiluminescent assay (without using the light source in the station). In some situations, the optical sensor in this configuration may not be as sensitive to light as a stand-alone photodiode or PMT, and therefore, use of the nucleic acid assay station as detector for chemiluminescence assays may be with assays which produce relatively moderate to high levels of chemiluminescent light. In configuration iii), an image of the chemiluminescent sample may be obtained by the CCD sensor, and further processed by image analysis (including light counts) to determine the level of chemiluminescence in the sample.

In some embodiments, the controller of a system, device, or module provided herein may be configured to select a particular detection unit from two or more detection units within a device or module for the detection of a signal or data from a selected assay unit within the same device or module. For example, a module of a device provided herein may contain three detection units: i) a photodiode, ii) a nucleic acid assay station containing or operatively coupled to a light source and an optical sensor, and iii) a detection unit containing a CCD sensor. The module may also contain multiple assay units and may simultaneously perform multiple assays. Before, during, or after the performance of, for example, a chemiluminescent assay in a particular movable assay unit in an assay station in the module, the controller may determine which of the three detection units in the module to use for receiving the selected assay unit and detecting a signal or data from the assay unit. In making the determination, the controller may take into account one or more factors, such as: i) detection unit availability—one or more of the detection units may be occupied with other assay units at the time of the completion of the assay in the selected assay unit; ii) detection unit suitability for receiving a particular assay unit configuration—different detection units may be optimized for receiving assay units of particular shapes or sizes; iii) detection unit suitability for detecting the signal or data from the particular assay being performed within the selected assay unit—different detection units may be optimized to measure a particular property of a sample (e.g. absorbance vs. fluorescence vs. color, etc.), or different detection units may be optimized to measure certain features/versions of a particular property of a sample (e.g. a detection unit containing an optical sensor may be optimized to measure high levels of light or low levels of light, or a detection unit configured for measuring fluorescence may be configured to measure the fluorescence of compounds having a certain range of excitation wavelengths and a certain range of emission wavelengths); and iv) total time for multiplexing of assays—in order to reduce the total time necessary to perform or obtain data from multiple assays within the device or module, the controller may take into account other assays simultaneously being performed in the device or module, such that the use of each detection unit is optimized for the combination of all assays being simultaneously performed in the module or device. Based on the various determinations by the controller, the controller may direct a sample handling apparatus (for example, a pipette) within the module to transport the assay unit containing the chemiluminescent assay to a particular detection unit within the module, for measurement of the chemiluminescent signal. In this example, if the chemiluminescent assay in the selected assay unit is expected to generate a low level of light and the photodiode is available at the time of the completion of the assay in the selected assay unit, the controller may direct the sample handling apparatus to transport the selected assay unit to the photodiode for measurement. In some embodiments, the controller may contain a protocol for the detection of an assay in a selected assay unit with a detection unit selected from two or more detection units in the module or device, where the protocol takes into account one or more of the factors indicated above relevant to the selection of a detection unit from two or more detection units. The protocol may be stored in the module or the device, stored in an external device or cloud, or generated on demand. Protocols that are generated on demand may be generated on the device or on an external device or cloud, and downloaded to the sample processing device.

In some embodiments, the device or controller may receive or store a protocol which contains instructions for directing a sample handling apparatus within a device or module to move assay units to different detection units (or vice versa) in the device or module, and which takes into account multiple assays being simultaneously performed in the same module or device. Optionally, with such protocols, different assays having the same reaction outcome may be measured in different detection units provided herein (e.g. a chemiluminescent reaction may be measured in, for example, a PMT or a camera containing a CCD sensor), depending on the other assays being performed simultaneously in the same module or device. These features of the controller, protocols, and detection units provide multiple benefits, including, for example, the ability to efficiently multiplex discrete assays within a device or module, and the ability to efficiently obtain data from assays using different detection units.

In some embodiments, the detection system may comprise optical or non-optical detectors or sensors for detecting a particular parameter of a subject. Such sensors may include sensors for temperature, electrical signals, for compounds that are oxidized or reduced, for example, O₂, H₂O₂, and I₂, or oxidizable/reducible organic compounds. Detection system may include sensors which measure acoustic waves, changes in acoustic pressure and acoustic velocity. In some embodiments, systems and devices provided herein may contain a barometer or other device for sensing atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure measurements may be useful, for example, for adjusting protocols to high or low-pressure situations. For example, atmospheric pressure may be relevant to assays that measure one or more dissolved gases in a sample. In addition, atmospheric pressure measurements may be useful, for example, when using a device provided herein in high or low pressure environment (e.g. at high altitudes, on an airplane, or in space).

Examples of temperature sensors may include thermometers, thermocouples, or IR sensors. The temperature sensors may or may not use thermal imaging. The temperature sensor may or may not contact the item whose temperature is to be sensed.

Examples of sensors for electrical properties may include sensors that can detect or measure voltage level, current level, conductivity, impedance, or resistance. Electrical property sensors may also include potentiometers or amperometric sensors.

In some embodiments, labels may be selected to be detectable by a detection unit. The labels may be selected to be selectively detected by a detection unit. Examples of labels are discussed in greater detail elsewhere herein.

Any of the sensors may be triggered according to one or more schedule, or a detected event. In some embodiments, a sensor may be triggered when it receives instructions from one or more controller. A sensor may be continuously sensing and may indicate when a condition is sensed.

The one or more sensors may provide signals indicative of measured properties to a controller. The one or more sensors may provide signals to the same controller or to different controllers. In some embodiments, the controller may have a hardware and/or software module which may process the sensor signal to interpret it for the controller. In some embodiments, the signals may be provided to the controller via a wired connection, or may be provided wirelessly. The controller may be provided on a system-wide level, group of device level, device level, module level, or component of module level, or any other level as described elsewhere herein.

The controller may, based on the signals from the sensors, effect a change in a component or maintain the state of a unit. For example, the controller may change the temperature of a thermal control unit, modify the rotation speed of a centrifuge, determine a protocol to run on a particular assay sample, move a vessel and/or tip, or dispense and/or aspirate a sample. In some embodiments, based on the signals from the sensors, the controller may maintain one or more condition of the device. One or more signal from the sensors may also permit the controller to determine the current state of the device and track what actions have occurred, or are in progress. This may or may not affect the future actions to be performed by the device. In some instances, the sensors (e.g., cameras) may be useful for detecting conditions that may include errors or malfunctions of the device. The sensors may detect conditions that may lead to an error or malfunction in data collection. Sensors may be useful in providing feedback in trying to correct a detected error or malfunction.

In some embodiments, one or more signal from a single sensor may be considered for particular actions or conditions of the device. Alternatively, one or more signals from a plurality of sensors may be considered for particular actions or conditions of the device. The one or more signals may be assessed based on the moment they are provided. Alternatively, the one or more signals may be assessed based on information collected over time. In some embodiments, the controller may have a hardware and/or software module which may process one more sensor signals in a mutually-dependent or independent manner to interpret the signals for the controller.

In some embodiments, multiple types of sensors or detection units may be useful for measuring the same property. In some instances, multiple types of sensors or detection units may be used for measuring the same property and may provide a way of verifying a measured property or as a coarse first measurement which can then be used to refine the second measurement. For example, both a camera and a spectroscope or other type of sensor may be used to provide a colorimetric readout. Nucleic acid assay may be viewed via fluorescence and another type of sensor. Cell concentration can be measured with low sensitivity using absorbance or fluorescence with the aim of configuring the same or another detector prior to performing high sensitivity cytometry. With systems, devices, methods, and assays provided herein, turbidity of a sample may be assayed, for example, by measuring i) the light transmitted through the sample (similar to an absorbance measurement and may include colorimetry; the light path may travel through the sample horizontally or vertically); or ii) the light scattered by the sample (sometimes known as a nephelometric measurement). Typically, for option i), the light sensor is located in-line with the light source, and the sample to be measured is located between the light source and the optical sensor. Typically, for option ii), the optical sensor is offset from path of the light from the light source (e.g. at a 90 degree angle), and the sample to be measured is located in the path of the light source. In another example, agglutination of a sample may be assayed, for example, by: i) measuring the light transmitted through the sample (similar to an absorbance measurement and may include colorimetry); ii) measuring light scattered by the sample (sometimes known as a nephelometric measurement); iii) obtaining an electronic image of the sample (e.g. with a CCD or CMOS optical sensor), followed by manual or automated image analysis; or iv) visual inspection of the sample.

The controller may also provide information to an external device. For example, the controller may provide an assay reading to an external device which may further analyze the results. The controller may provide the signals provided by the sensors to the external device. The controller may pass on such data as raw data as collected from the sensors. Alternatively, the controller may process and/or pre-process the signals from the sensors before providing them to the external device. The controller may or may not perform any analysis on the signals received from the sensors. In one example the controller may put the signals into a desired format without performing any analysis.

In some embodiments, detection units may be provided inside a housing of the device. In some instances, one or more detection units, such as sensors may be provided external to the housing of the device. In some embodiments, a device may be capable of imaging externally. For example, the device may be capable of performing MRI, ultrasound, or other scans. This may or may not utilize sensors external to the device. In some instances, it may utilize peripherals, which may communicate with the device. In one example a peripheral may be an ultrasonic scanner. The peripherals may communicate with the device through a wireless and/or wired connection. The device and/or peripherals may be brought into close proximity (e.g., within 1 m, 0.5 m, 0.3 m, 0.2 m, 0.1 cm, 8 cm, 6 cm, 5 cm, 4 cm, 3 cm, 2 cm, 1 cm, 0.5 cm) or contact the area to be scanned. In some embodiments, a device may contain or communicate with a peripheral device for performing x-rays (e.g. x-ray generator and detector), sonography, ultrasound, or echocardiograms (e.g. sonographic scanners), a cooximeter, or eye scans (e.g. optical sensor). In some embodiments, a device may contain or communicate with an independently movable peripheral that can, with aid of an imaging device, physically follow a subject (e.g. throughout a room or a house), and monitor the subject. The independently movable peripheral may, for example, monitor subjects that require a high level of care or monitoring.

In some embodiments, a sensor may be integrated into a pill or patch. In some embodiments, a sensor may be implantable or injectable. Optionally, such a sensor may be a multi-analyte sensor that is implanted/injected. All such sensors (pill, patch, implanted/injected) could measure the multiple assay methodologies simultaneously, sequentially, or singly and may communicate with a cell phone or external device by way of wired, wireless, or other communication technique. Any of these sensors may be configured to performed one or more types of assays or obtain one or more types of data from a subject (e.g. temperature, electrochemical, etc.). Data from the sensors may be, for example, communicated to an external device or a sample processing device of a system provided herein. In some embodiments, the sensors may receive instructions from an external device or a sample processing device regarding, for example, when to perform a measurement or what assay to perform.

Cameras

Cameras described herein may be charge coupled device (CCDs) cameras, super-cooled CCD cameras, or other optical cameras. Such cameras may be formed on chips having one or more cameras, such as part of an array of cameras. Such cameras may include one or more optical components, for example, for capturing light, focusing light, polarizing light, rejecting unwanted light, minimizing scattering, improving image quality, improving signal-to-noise. In an example, cameras may include one or more of lenses and mirrors. Such cameras may have color or monochromatic sensors. Such cameras may also include electronic components such as microprocessors and digital signal processors for one or more of the following tasks: image compression, improvement of dynamic range using computational methods, auto-exposure, automatic determination of optimal camera parameters, image processing, triggering strobe light to be in sync with the camera, in-line controller to compensate for effect of temperature changes on camera sensor performance. Such cameras may also include on-board memory to buffer images acquired at high frame rates. Such cameras may include mechanical features for image quality improvement such as a cooling system or anti-vibration system.

Cameras may be provided at various locations of point of service systems, devices and modules described herein. In an embodiment, cameras are provided in modules for imaging various processing routines, including sample preparation and assaying. This may enable the system to detect a fault, perform quality control assessments, perform longitudinal analysis, perform process optimization and synchronize operation with other modules and/or systems.

In some cases, a camera includes one or more optical elements selected from the group consisting of a lens, a mirror, a diffraction grating, a prism, and other components for directing and/or manipulating light. In other cases, a camera is a lens-less (or lensless) camera configured to operate without one or more lenses. An example of a lens-less camera is the Frankencamera. In an embodiment, a lens-less camera uses (or collects) reflected or scattered light and computer processing to deduce the structure of an object.

In an embodiment, a lens-less camera has a diameter of at most about 10 nanometers (“nm”), at most about 100 nm, at most about 1 m, at most about 10 m, at most about 100 m, at most about 1 mm, at most about 10 mm, at most about 100 mm, or at most about 500 mm. In another embodiment, a lens-less camera has a diameter between about 10 nm and 1 mm, or between about 50 nm and 500 μm.

Cameras provided herein are configured for rapid image capture. System employing such cameras may provide images in a delayed fashion, in which there is a delay from the point in which an image is captured to the point it is displayed to a user, or in real-time, in which there is low or no delay from the point in which an image is captured to the point it is displayed to the user. In some situations, cameras provided herein are configured to operate under low or substantially low lighting conditions.

In some situations, cameras provided herein are formed of optical waveguides configured to guide electromagnetic waves in the optical spectrum. Such optical waveguides may be formed in an array of optical waveguides. An optical waveguide may be a planar waveguide, which may include one or more gratings for directing light. In some cases, the camera may have fiber optic image bundles, image conduits or faceplates carrying light to the camera sensor.

Cameras may be useful as detection units. Cameras may also be useful for imaging one or more sample or portion of a sample. Cameras may be useful for pathology. Cameras may also be useful for detecting the concentration of one or more analyte in a sample. Cameras may be useful for imaging movement or change of a sample and/or analytes in a sample over time. Cameras may include video cameras that may capture images continuously. Cameras may also optionally capture images at one or more times (e.g., periodically, at predetermined intervals (regular or irregular intervals), in response to one or more detected event). For example, cameras may be useful for capturing changes of cell morphology, concentration and spatial distribution of entities in cells that are labeled with contrast agents (e.g. fluorescent dyes, gold nanoparticles) and/or movement. Cell imaging may include images captured over time, which may be useful for analyzing cell movement and morphology changes, and associated disease states or other conditions. Cameras may be useful for capturing sample kinematics, dynamics, morphology, or histology. Such images may be useful for diagnosis, prognosis, and/or treatment of a subject. An imaging device may be a camera or a sensor that detects and/or records electromagnetic radiation and associated spatial and/or temporal dimensions.

Cameras may be useful for interaction of an operator of a device with the device. The cameras may be used for communications between a device operator and another individual. The cameras may permit teleconferencing and/or video conferencing. The cameras may permit a semblance of face-to-face interactions between individuals who may be at different locations. Images of a sample or component thereof, or an assay or reaction involving same, may be stored, enabling subsequent reflex testing, analysis and/or review. Image processing algorithms may be used to analyze collected images within the device or remotely.

Cameras may also be useful for biometric measurements (e.g., waist circumference, neck circumference, arm circumference, leg circumference, height, weight, body fat, BMI) of a subject and/or identifying a subject or operator of a device (e.g., facial recognition, retinal scan, fingerprint, handprint, gait, movement) which may optionally be characterized through imaging. Embedded imaging systems may also capture ultrasound or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of a subject through the system. Cameras may also be useful for security applications, as described elsewhere herein. Cameras may also be useful for imaging one or more portion of the device and for detecting error within the device. Cameras may image and/or detect a malfunction and/or proper function of mechanics of one or more component of the device. Cameras may be used to capture problems, correct a problem, or learn from detected conditions. For example, a camera may detect whether there is an air bubble in the tip, which may end up skewing readouts or may result in error. A camera may also be used to detect if a tip is not properly bound to a pipette. Cameras may capture images of components and determine whether the components are positioned properly, or where components are positioned. Cameras may be used as part of a feedback loop with a controller to determine the location of components with sub-micrometer resolution and adjust system configuration to account for the exact location.

Housing

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a system may include one or more devices. A device may have a housing and/or support structure.

In some embodiments, a device housing may entirely enclose the device. In other embodiments, the device housing may partially enclose the device. The device housing may include one, two, three, four, five, six or more walls that may at least partially enclose the device. The device housing may include a bottom and/or top. The device housing may contain one or more modules of the device within the housing. The device housing may contain electronic and/or mechanical components within the housing. The device housing may contain a fluid handling system within the housing. The device housing may contain one or more communication unit within the housing. The device housing may contain one or more controller unit. A device user interface and/or display may be contained within the housing or may be disposed on a surface of the housing. A device may or may not contain a power source, or an interface with a power source. The power source may be provided or interfaced within the housing, external to the housing, or incorporated within the housing.

A device may or may not be air tight or fluid tight. A device may or may not prevent light or other electromagnetic waves from entering the housing from outside the device, or escaping the housing from within the device. In some instances, individual modules may or may not be air tight or fluid tight and/or may or may not prevent light or other electromagnetic waves from entering the module.

In some embodiments, the device may be supported by a support structure. In some embodiments, the support structure may be a device housing. In other embodiments, a support structure may support a device from beneath the device. Alternatively, the support structure may support a device from one or more side, or from the top. The support structure may be integrated within the device or between portions of the device. The support structure may connect portions of the device. Any description of the device housing herein may also apply to any other support structure or vice versa.

The device housing may fully or partially enclose the entire device. The device housing may enclose a total volume of less than or equal to about 4 m³, 3 m³, 2.5 m³, 2 m³, 1.5 m³, 1 m³, 0.75 m³, 0.5 m³, 0.3 m³, 0.2 m³, 0.1 m³, 0.08 m³, 0.05 m³, 0.03 m³, 0.01 m³, 0.005 m³, 0.001 m³, 500 cm³, 100 cm³, 50 cm³, 10 cm³, 5 cm³, 1 cm³, 0.5 cm³, 0.1 cm³, 0.05 cm³, or 0.01 cm³. The device may have any of the volumes described elsewhere herein.

The device and/or device housing may have a footprint covering a lateral area of the device. In some embodiments, the device footprint may be less than or equal to about 4 m², 3 m², 2.5 m², 2 m², 1.5 m², 1 m², 0.75 m², 0.5 m², 0.3 m², 0.2 m², 0.1 m², 0.08 m², 0.05 m², 0.03 m², 100 cm², 80 cm², 70 cm², 60 cm², 50 cm², 40 cm², 30 cm², 20 cm², 15 cm², 10 cm², 7 cm², 5 cm², 1 cm², 0.5 cm², 0.1 cm², 0.05 cm², or 0.01 cm².

The device and/or device housing may have a lateral dimension (e.g., width, length, or diameter) or a height less than or equal to about 4 m, 3 m, 2.5 m, 2 m, 1.5 m, 1.2 m, 1 m, 80 cm, 70 cm, 60 cm, 50 cm, 40 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 15 cm, 12 cm, 10 cm, 8 cm, 5 cm, 3 cm, 2 cm, 1 cm, 0.5 cm, 0.1 cm, 0.05 cm, or 0.01 cm. The lateral dimensions and/or height may vary from one another. Alternatively, they may be the same. In some instances, the device may be a tall and thin device, or may be a short and squat device. The height to lateral dimension ratio may be greater than or equal to 100:1, 50:1, 30:1, 20:1, 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:20, 1:30, 1:50, or 1:100.

The device and/or device housing may have any shape. In some embodiments, the device may have a lateral cross-sectional shape of a rectangle or square. In other embodiments, the device may have a lateral cross-sectional shape of a circle, ellipse, triangle, trapezoid, parallelogram, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, or any other shape. The device may have a vertical cross-sectional shape of a circle, ellipse, triangle, rectangle, square, trapezoid, parallelogram, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, or any other shape. The device may or may not have a box-like shape. The device may or may not have a flattened planar shape and/or a rounded shape.

A device housing and/or support structure may be formed of a rigid, semi-rigid or flexible material. A device housing may be formed of one or more materials. In some embodiments, the device housing may include polystyrene, moldable or machinable plastic. The device housing may include polymeric materials. Non-limiting examples of polymeric materials include polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polydimethysiloxanes (PDMS), polyurethane, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polysulfone, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and glass. The device housing may be an opaque material, a translucent material, a transparent material, or may include portions that are any combination thereof.

The device housing may be formed of a single integral piece or multiple pieces. The device housing may comprise multiple pieces that may be permanently affixed to one another or removably attached to one another. In some instances, one or more connecting features of the housing may be contained within the housing only. Alternatively one or more connecting features of the device housing may be external to the device housing. The device housing may be opaque. The device housing may prevent uncontrolled light from entering the device. The device housing may include one or more transparent portions. The device housing may permit controlled light to enter selected regions of the device.

The device housing may contain one or more movable portion that may be used to accept a sample into the device. Alternatively, the device housing may be static as a sample is provided to the device. For example the device housing may include an opening. The device opening may remain open or may be closable. A device opening may directly or indirectly lead to a sample collection unit, such that a subject may provide a sample to the device through the device housing. In such circumstances, the sample may be provided, for example, to a cartridge in the device. The device may include one or more movable tray that may accept one or more sample or other component of the device. The tray may be translatable in a horizontal and/or vertical direction. The opening may be in fluid communication with one or more portion of the fluid handling system therein. The opening may be selectively opened and/or closed. One or more portions of the device housing may be selectively opened and/or closed.

In some embodiments, the device housing may be configured to accept a cartridge, or sample collection unit. In some embodiments, the device housing may be configured to accept or collect a sample. The device housing may be configured to collect a sample directly from a subject or an environment. The sample receiving location may be configured to have an opened and a closed position, such that when closed, the device housing may be sealed. The device housing may be in contact with the subject or environment. Additional details relating to sample collection may be described elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, the housing may surround one or more of the racks, modules, and/or components described elsewhere herein. Alternatively, the housing may be integrally forming one or more of the racks, modules, and/or components described elsewhere herein. For example, the housing may provide electricity and/or energy for the device. The housing may power the device from an energy storage unit, energy generation unit, and/or energy conveyance unit of the housing. The housing may provide communications between the device and/or an external device.

Controller

A controller may be provided at any level of the system described herein. For example, one or more controller for a system, groups of devices, a single device, a module, a component of the device, and/or a portion of the component may be provided.

A system may comprise one or more controller. A controller may provide instructions to one or more device, module of a device, component of a device, and/or portion of a component. A controller may receive signals that may be detected from one or more sensors. A controller may receive a signal provided by a detection unit. A controller may comprise a local memory or may access a remote memory. A memory may comprise tangible computer readable media with code, instructions, language to perform one or more steps as described elsewhere herein. A controller may be or use a processors.

A system wide controller may be provided external to one, two or more device and may provide instructions to or receive signals from the one, two or more devices. In some embodiments, the controller may communicate with selected groups of devices. In some embodiments the controller may communicate with one or more devices in the same geographic location, or over different geographic locations. In some embodiments, a system wide controller may be provided on a server or another network device.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a device may comprise one or more controller. The controller may provide instructions to one or more module of the device, component of a device, and/or portion of a component. The device-level controller may receive signals that may be detected from one or more sensors, and/or a detection unit.

The controller may comprise a local memory or may access a remote memory on the device. The memory may comprise tangible computer readable media with code, instructions, language to perform one or more steps as described elsewhere herein. A device may have a local memory that may store one or more protocols. In some embodiments, a controller may be provided on a cloud computing infrastructure. The controller may be spread out across one or more hardware devices. The memory for the controller may be provided on one or more hardware devices. The protocols may be generated and/or stored on-board on the device. Alternatively, the protocols may be received from an external source, such as an external device or controller. The protocols may be stored on a cloud computing infrastructure, or a peer to peer infrastructure. The memory may also store data collected from a detection unit of the device. The data may be stored for analysis of detected signals. Some signal processing and/or data analysis may or may not occur at the device level. Alternatively, signal processing and/or data analysis may occur on an external device, such as a server. The signal processing and/or data analysis may occur using a cloud computing infrastructure. The signal processing and/or data analysis may occur at a different location from where the device is located, or at the same geographic location.

The device-level controller may be provided within a device and may provide instructions to or receive signals from the one, two or more racks, modules, components of a module, or portions of the components. In some embodiments, the controller may communicate with selected groups of modules, components, or portions. In some instances, the device-level controller may be provided within a module communicating with the other modules. In some embodiments, a device-level controller may be provided on a module, which may have a master-slave relationship with other modules. A modular controller may be insertable and/or removable from a device.

A device level-controller may receive instructions from a system-wide controller or a controller that provides instructions to one or more devices. The instructions may be protocols which may be stored on a local memory of the device. Alternatively, the instructions may be executed by the device in response to the received instructions without requiring the instructions be stored on the device, or only having them temporarily stored on the device. In some embodiments, the device may only store a recently received protocol. Alternatively, the device may store multiple protocols and be able to refer to them at a later time.

The device may provide information related to detected signals from a detection unit to an external source. The external source receiving the information may or may not be the same as the source of the protocols. The device may provide raw information about the detected signals from the detection unit. Such information may include assay result information. The device may provide some processing of the collected sensor information. The device may or may not perform analysis of the collected sensor information locally. The information sent to the external source may or may not include processed and/or analyzed data.

A device-level controller may instruct the device to perform as a point of service device. A point of service device may perform one or more action at a location remote to another location. The device-level controller may instruct the device to directly interface with a subject or environment. The device level controller may permit the device to be operated by an operator of the device who may or may not be a health care professional. The device-level controller may instruct the device to directly receive a sample, where some additional analysis may occur remotely.

In accordance with additional embodiment of the invention, a module may comprise one or more controller. The controller may provide instructions to one or more components of the module, and/or portion of a component. The module-level controller may receive signals that may be detected from one or more sensors, and/or a detection unit. In some examples, each module may have one or more controllers. Each module may have one or multiple microcontrollers. Each module may have different operating systems that may control each module independently. The modules may be capable of operating independently of one another. One or more module may have one or more microcontrollers controlling different peripherals, detection systems, robots, movements, stations, fluid actuation, sample actuation, or any other action within a module. In some instances, each module may have built-in graphics capabilities for high performance processing of images. In additional embodiments, each module may have their own controllers and/or processors that may permit parallel processing using a plurality of modules.

The controller may comprise a local memory or may access a remote memory on the module. The memory may comprise tangible computer readable media with code, instructions, language to perform one or more steps as described elsewhere herein. A module may have a local memory that may store one or more protocols. The protocols may be generated and/or stored on-board on the module. Alternatively, the protocols may be received from an external source, such as an external module, device or controller. The memory may also store data collected from a detection unit of the module. The data may be stored for analysis of detected signals. Some signal processing and/or data analysis may or may not occur at the module level. Alternatively, signal processing and/or data analysis may occur on the device level, or at an external device, such as a server. The signal processing and/or data analysis may occur at a different location from where the module is located, or at the same geographic location.

The module-level controller may be provided within a module and may provide instructions to or receive signals from the one, two or more components of the module, or portions of the components. In some embodiments, the controller may communicate with selected groups of components, or portions. In some instances, the module-level controller may be provided within a component communicating with the other components. In some embodiments, a module-level controller may be provided on a component, which may have a master-slave relationship with other components. A modular controller may be insertable and/or removable from a module.

A module-level controller may receive instructions from a device-wide controller, system-wide controller or a controller that provides instructions to one or more devices. The instructions may be protocols which may be stored on a local memory of the module. Alternatively, the instructions may be executed by the module in response to the received instructions without requiring the instructions be stored on the module, or only having them temporarily stored on the module. In some embodiments, the module may only store a recently received protocol. Alternatively, the module may store multiple protocols and be able to refer to them at a later time.

The module may provide information related to detected signals from a detection unit to the device, or an external source. The device or external source receiving the information may or may not be the same as the source of the protocols. The module may provide raw information about the detected signals from the detection unit. Such information may include assay result information. The module may provide some processing of the collected sensor information. The module may or may not perform analysis of the collected sensor information locally. The information sent to the device or external source may or may not include processed and/or analyzed data.

A module-level controller may instruct the module to perform as a point of service module. The module-level controller may instruct the module to directly interface with a subject or environment. The module level controller may permit the module to be operated by an operator of the device who may or may not be a health care professional.

A controller may be provided at any level of the system as described herein (e.g., high level system, groups of devices, device, rack, module, component, portion of component). The controller may or may not have a memory at its level. Alternatively, it may access and/or use a memory at any other level. The controller may or may not communicate with additional controllers at the same or different levels. A controller may or may not communicate with additional controllers at levels immediately below or above them or a plurality of levels below or above them. A controller may communicate to receive and/or provide instructions/protocols. A controller may communicate to receive and/or provide collected data or information based on the data.

User Interface

A device may have a display and/or user interface. In some situations, the user interface is provided to the subject with the aid of the display, such as through a graphical user interface (GUI) that may enable a subject to interact with device. Examples of displays and/or user interfaces may include a touchscreen, video display, LCD screen, CRT screen, plasma screen, light sources (e.g., LEDs, OLEDs), IR LED based surfaces spanning around or across devices, modules or other components, pixelsense based surface, infrared cameras or other capture technology based surfaces, projector, projected screen, holograms, keys, mouse, button, knobs, sliding mechanisms, joystick, audio components, voice activation, speakers, microphones, a camera (e.g., 2D, 3D cameras), multiple cameras (e.g., may be useful for capturing gestures and motions), glasses/contact lenses with screens built-in, video capture, haptic interface, temperature sensor, body sensors, body mass index sensors, motion sensors, and/or pressure sensors. Any description herein of a display and/or user interface may apply to any type of display and/or user interface. A display may provide information to an operator of the device. A user interface may provide information and/or receive information from the operator. In some embodiments, such information may include visual information, audio information, sensory information, thermal information, pressure information, motion information, or any other type of information. Sound, video, and color coded information (such as red LEDs indicating a module is in use) may be used in providing feedback to users using a point of service system or information system or interfacing with a system through touch or otherwise. In some embodiments, a user interface or other sensor of the device may be able to detect if someone is approaching the device, and wake up.

FIG. 20 illustrates a point of service device 5600 having a display 5601. The display is configured to provide a graphical user interface (GUI) 5602 to a subject. The display 5601 may be a touch display, such as a resistive-touch or capacitive-touch display. The device 5600 is configured to communicate with a remote device 5603, such as, for example, a personal computer, Smart phone, tablet, or server. The device 5600 has a central processing unit (CPU) 5604, memory 5605, communications module (or interface) 5606, and hard drive 5607. In some embodiments, the device 5600 includes a camera 5608 (or in some cases a plurality of cameras, such as for three-dimensional imaging) for image and video capture. The device 5600 may include a sound recorder for capturing sound. Images and/or videos may be provided to a subject with the aid of the display 5601. In other embodiments, the camera 5608 may be a motion-sensing input device (e.g., Microsoft® Kinect®).

One or more sensors may be incorporated into the device and/or user interface. The sensors may be provided on the device housing, external to the device housing, or within the device housing. Any of the sensor types describing elsewhere herein may be incorporated. Some examples of sensors may include optical sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, depth sensors, pressure sensors, electrical characteristic sensors, gyroscopes or acceleration sensors (e.g., accelerometer).

In an example, the device includes an accelerometer that detects when the device is not disposed on an ideal surface (e.g., horizontal surface), such as when the device has tipped over. In another example, the accelerometer detects when the device is being moved. In such circumstances, the device may shutdown to prevent damage to various components of the device. In some cases, prior to shutting down, the device takes a picture of a predetermined area on or around the device with the aid of a camera on the device (see FIG. 20).

The user interface and/or sensors may be provided on a housing of the device. They may be integrated into the housing of a device. In some embodiments, the user interface may form an outer layer of the housing of the device. The user interface may be visible when viewing the device. The user interface may be selectively viewable when operating the device.

The user interface may display information relating to the operation of the device and/or data collected from the device. The user interface may display information relating to a protocol that may run on the device. The user interface may include information relating to a protocol provided from a source external to the device, or provided from the device. The user interface may display information relating to a subject and/or health care access for the subject. For example, the user interface may display information relating to the subject identity and medical insurance for the subject. The user interface may display information relating to scheduling and/or processing operation of the device.

The user interface may be capable of receiving one or more input from a user of the device. For example, the user interface may be capable of receiving instructions about one or more assay or procedure to be performed by the device. The user interface may receive instructions from a user about one or more sample processing step to occur within the device. The user interface may receive instructions about one or more analyte to be tested for.

The user interface may be capable of receiving information relating to the identity of the subject. The subject identity information may be entered by the subject or another operator of the device or imaged or otherwise captured by the user interface itself. Such identification may include biometric information, issued identification cards, or other uniquely identifiable biological or identifying features, materials, or data. The user interface may include one or more sensors that may assist with receiving identifying information about the subject. The user interface may have one or more question or instructions pertaining to the subject's identity, to which the subject may respond.

In some situations, the user interface is configured to display a questionnaire to a subject, the questionnaire including questions about the subject's dietary consumption, exercise, health condition and/or mental condition (see above). The questionnaire may be a guided questionnaire, having a plurality of questions of or related to the subject's dietary consumption, exercise, health condition and/or mental condition. The questionnaire may be presented to the subject with the aid of a user interface, such as graphical user interface (GUI), on the display of the device.

The use interface may be capable of receiving additional information relating to the subject's condition, habits, lifestyle, diet, exercise, sleep patterns, or any other information. The additional information may be entered directly by the subject or another operator of the device. The subject may be prompted by one or more questions or instructions from the user interface and may enter information in response. The questions or instructions may relate to qualitative aspects of the subject's life (e.g., how the patient is feeling). In some embodiments, the information provided by the subject are not quantitative. In some instances, the subject may also provide quantitative information. Information provided by the subject may or may not pertain to one or more analyte level within a sample from the subject. The survey may also collect information relating to therapy and/or medications undergone or currently taken by the subject. The user interface may prompt the subject using a survey or similar technique. The survey may include graphics, images, video, audio, or other media features. The survey may or may not have a fixed set of questions and/or instructions. The survey (e.g., the sequence and/or content of the questions) may dynamically change depending on the subject's answers.

Identifying information about the subject and/or additional information relating to the subject may be stored in the device and/or transmitted to an external device or cloud computing infrastructure. Such information may be useful in analyzing data relating to a sample collected from the subject. Such information may also be useful for determining whether to proceed with sample processing.

The user interface and/or sensors may be capable of collecting information relating to the subject or the environment. For example, the device may collect information through a screen, thermal sensor, optical sensor, motion sensor, depth sensor, pressure sensor, electrical characteristic sensor, acceleration sensor, any other type of sensor described herein or known in the art. In one example, the optical sensor may be a multi-aperture camera capable of collecting a plurality of images and calculating a depth therefrom. An optical sensor may be any type of camera or imaging device as described elsewhere herein. The optical sensor may capture one or more static images of the subject and/or video images of the subject.

The device may collect an image of the subject. The image may be a 2D image of the subject. The device may collect a plurality of images of the subject that may be used to determine a 3D representation of the subject. The device may collect a one-time image of the subject. The device may collect images of the subject over time. The device may collect images with any frequency. In some embodiments, the device may continually collect images in real-time. The device may collect a video of the subject. The device may collect images relating to any portion of the subject including but not limited to the subject's eye or retina, the subject's face, the subject's hand, the subject's fingertip, the subject's torso, and/or the subject's overall body. The images collected of the subject may be useful for identifying the subject and/or for diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, or prevention of a disease for the subject. In some instances, images may be useful for determining the subject's height, circumference, weight, or body mass index. The device may also capture the image of a subject's identification card, insurance card, or any other object associated with the subject.

The device may also collect audio information of the subject. Such audio information may include the subject's voice or the sound of one or more biological process of the subject. For example, the audio information may include the sound of the subject's heartbeat.

The device may collect biometric information about a subject. For example, the device may collect information about the subject's body temperature. In another example, the device can collect information about the subject's pulse rate. In some instances, the device may scan a portion of the subject, such as the subject's retina, fingerprint or handprint. The device may determine the subject's weight. The device may also collect a sample from the subject and sequence the subject's DNA or a portion thereof. The device may also collect a sample from the subject and conduct a proteomic analysis thereon. Such information may be used in the operation of the device. Such information may relate to the diagnosis or the identity of the subject. In some embodiments, the device may collect information about the operator of the device who may or may not be different from the subject. Such information can be useful for verifying the identity of the operator of the device.

In some instances, such information collected by the device may be used to identify the subject. The subject's identity may be verified for insurance or treatment purposes. The subject identify may be tied to the subject's medical records. In some instances, the data collected by the device from the subject and/or sample may be linked to the subject's records. The subject identity may also be tied into the subject's health insurance (or other payer) records.

Power Source

A device may have a power source or be connected to a power source. In some embodiments, the power source may be provided external to the device. For example, the power may be provided from a grid/utility. The power may be provided from an external energy storage system or bank. The power may be provided by an external energy generation system. In some embodiments, the device may include a plug or other connector capable of electrically connecting the device to the external power source. In another example, the device may use a body's natural electrical impulses to power the device. For example, the device may contact a subject, be worn by the subject, and/or be ingested by the subject, who may or may not provide some power to the device. In some embodiments, the device may include one or more piezoelectric component that may be movable, and capable of providing power to the device. For example, the device may have a patch configuration configured to be placed on a subject, so that when the subject moves and/or the patch is flexed, power is generated and provided to the device.

A device may optionally have an internal power source. For example, a local energy storage may be provided on the device. In one embodiment, the local energy storage may be one or more battery or ultracapacitor. Any battery chemistry known or later developed in the art may be used as a power source. A battery may be a primary or secondary (rechargeable) battery. Examples of batteries may include, but are not limited to, zinc-carbon, zinc-chloride, alkaline, oxy-nickel hydroxide, lithium, mercury oxide, zinc-air, silver oxide, NiCd, lead acid, NiMH, NiZn, or lithium ion. The internal power source may be stand alone or may be coupled with an external power source. In some embodiments, a device may include an energy generator. The energy generator may be provided on its own or may be coupled with an external and/or internal power source. The energy generator may be a traditional electricity generator as known in the art. In some embodiments, the energy generator may use a renewable energy source including, but not limited to, photovoltaics, solar thermal energy, wind energy, hydraulic energy, or geothermal energy. In some embodiments, the power may be generated through nuclear energy or through nuclear fusion.

Each device may be connected to or have a power source. Each module may be connected to or have its own local power source. In some instances, modules may be connected to a power source of the device. In some instances, each module may have its own local power source and may be capable of operating independently of other modules and/or devices. In some instances, the modules may be able to share resources. For example, if a power source in one of the modules is damaged or impaired, the module may be able to access the power source of another module or of the device. In another example, if a particular module is consuming a larger amount of power, the module may be able to tap into the power source of another module or of the device.

Optionally, device components may have a power source. Any discussion herein relating to power sources of modules and/or devices may also relate to power sources at other levels, such as systems, groups of devices, racks, device components, or portions of device components.

Communication Unit

A device may have a communication unit. The device may be capable of communication with an external device using the communication unit. In some instances, the external device may be one or more fellow devices. The external device may be a cloud computing infrastructure, part of a cloud computing infrastructure, or may interact with a cloud computing infrastructure. In some instances, the external device that the device may communicate with may be a server or other device as described elsewhere herein.

The communication unit may permit wireless communication between the device and the external device. Alternatively, the communication unit may provide wired communication between the device and the external device. The communication unit may be capable of transmitting and/or receiving information wirelessly from an external device. The communication unit may permit one way and/or two-way communication between the device and one or more external device. In some embodiments, the communication unit may transmit information collected or determined by the device to an external device. In some embodiments, the communication unit may be receiving a protocol or one or more instructions from the external device. The device may be able to communicate with selected external devices, or may be able to communicate freely with a wide variety of external devices.

In some embodiments, the communication unit may permit the device to communicate over a network, such as a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet. In some embodiments, the device may communicate via a telecommunications network, such as a cellular or satellite network.

Some examples of technologies that may be used by a communication unit may include Bluetooth or RTM technology. Alternatively, various communication methods may be used, such as a dial-up wired connection with a modem, a direct link such as TI, ISDN, or cable line. In some embodiments, a wireless connection may be using exemplary wireless networks such as cellular, satellite, or pager networks, GPRS, or a local data transport system such as Ethernet or token ring over a LAN. In some embodiments, the communication unit may contain a wireless infrared communication component for sending and receiving information.

In some embodiments, the information may be encrypted before it is transmitted over a network, such as a wireless network. In some embodiments, the encryption may be hardware-based encryption. In some instances, the information may be encrypted on the hardware. Any or all information, which may include user data, subject data, test results, identifier information, diagnostic information, or any other type of information, may be encrypted based on hardware based and/or software based encryption. Encryption may also optionally be based on subject-specific information. For example, a subject may have a sample being processed by the device, and the subject's password may be used to encrypt the data relating to the subject's sample. By encrypting the subject's data with subject-specific information, only the subject may be able to retrieve that data. For example, the decryption may only occur if the subject enters a password on a website. In another example, information transmitted by the device may be encrypted by information specific to the operator of the device at that time, and may only be retrieved if the operator enters the operator's password or provide the operator specific-information.

Each device may have a communication unit. Each module may have its own local communication unit. In some instances, modules may share a communication unit with the device. In some instances, each module may have its own local communication unit and may be capable of communicating independently of other modules and/or devices. The module may use its communication unit to communicate with an external device, with the device, or with other modules. In some instances, the modules may be able to share resources. For example, if a communication unit in one of the modules is damaged or impaired, the module may be able to access the communication unit of another module or of the device. In some instances, devices, racks, modules, components or portions of device components may be able to share one or more routers. The various levels and/or components in the hierarchy may be able to communicate with one another.

Optionally, device components may have a communication unit. Any discussion herein relating to communication units of modules and/or devices may also relate to communication units at other levels, such as systems, groups of devices, racks, device components, or portions of device components.

Device, Module and Component Identifier

A device may have a device identifier. A device identifier may identify the device. In some embodiments, the device identifier may be unique per device. In other embodiments, the device identifier may identify a type of device, or modules/components provided within the device. The device identifier may indicate functions that the device is capable of performing. The device identifier may or may not be unique in such situations.

The device identifier may be a physical object formed on the device. For example, the device identifier may be read by an optical scanner, or an imaging device, such as a camera. The device identifier may be read by one or more types of sensors described elsewhere herein. In one example, the device identifier may be a barcode. A barcode may be a 1D or 2D barcode. In some embodiments, the device identifier may emit one or more signal that may identify the device. For example, the device identifier may provide an infrared, thermal, ultrasonic, optical, audio, electrical, chemical, biological, or other signal that may indicate the device identity. The device identifier may use a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag.

The device identifier may be stored in a memory of the device. In one example, the device identifier may be a computer readable medium. The device identifier may be communicated wirelessly or via a wired connection.

The device identifier may be static or changeable. The device identifier may change as one or more module provided for the device may change. The device identifier may change based on available components of the device. The device identifier may change when instructed by an operator of the device.

The device identifier may be provided to permit the device to be integrated within a systemwide communication. For example, an external device may communicate with a plurality of devices. The external device may distinguish a diagnostic device from another diagnostic device via the device identifier. The external device may provide specialized instructions to a diagnostic device based on its identifier. The external device may include a memory or may communicate with a memory that may keep track of information about the various devices. The device identifier of a device may be linked in memory with the information collected from the device or associated with the device.

In some embodiments, an identifier may be provided on a module or at component level to uniquely identify each component in a device at the system level. For example, various modules may have module identifiers. The module identifier may or may not be unique per module. The module identifier may have one or more characteristics of a device identifier.

The module identifier may permit a device or system (e.g., external device, server) to identify the modules that are provided therein. For example, the module identifier may identify the type of module, and may permit the device to automatically detect the components and capability provided by the module. In some instances, the module identifier may uniquely identify the module, and the device may be able to track specific information associated with the particular module. For example, the device may be able to track the age of the module and estimate when certain components may need to be renewed or replaced. The module may communicate with a processor of the device which it is a part of.

Alternatively, the module may communicate with a processor of an external device. The module identifier may provide the same information on a system-wide level. In some embodiments, the system, rather than the device, may track the information associated with the module identifier.

The module identifier may be communicated to the device or system when it is connected to the device or interfaced with a device. For instance, the module identifier may be communicated to the device or system after the module has been mounted on a support structure. Alternatively, the module identifier may be communicated remotely when the module is not yet connected to the device.

An identifier may be provided at any other level described herein (e.g., external device, groups of devices, racks, components of a device, portions of a component). Any characteristics of identifiers provided herein may also apply to such identifiers.

Systems

FIG. 1 shows an example of a device 100 in communication with a controller 110 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

The device may have any of the characteristics, structure, or functionality as described elsewhere herein. For example, the device 100 may comprise one or more support structure 120. In some embodiments, the support structure may be a rack, or any other support as described elsewhere herein. In some instances, the device may include a single support structure. Alternatively, the device may include a plurality of support structures. A plurality of support structure may or may not be connected to one another.

The device 100 may comprise one or more module 130. In some instances, a support structure 120 may comprise one or more module. In one example, the module may have a blade format that may be mounted on a rack support structure. Any number of modules may be provided per device or support structure. Different support structure may have different numbers or types of modules.

The device 100 may comprise one or more component 140. In some instances, a module 130 may comprise one or more component of the module. A rack 120 may comprise one or more component of a module. Any number of components may be provided per device, rack, or module. Different modules may have different numbers or types of components.

In some examples, the devices may be a benchtop device, a handheld device, a wearable device, an ingestible device, an implantable device, a patch, and/or a pill. The device may be portable. The device may be placed on top of a surface, such as a counter, table, floor or any other surface. The device may be mountable or attachable to a wall, ceiling, ground and/or any other structure. The device may be worn directly by the subject, or may be incorporated into the subject's clothing.

The device may be self-contained. For example, the device may comprise a local memory. The local memory may be provided to the overall device, or may be provided to one or more module, or may be distributed over one or more module. The local memory may be contained within a housing of the device. A local memory may be provided on a support of a module or within a housing of a module. Alternatively, the local memory of the device may be provided external to a module while within the device housing. The local memory of the device may or may not be supported by a support structure of the device. The local memory may be provided external to the support structure of the device, or may be integrated within the support structure of the device.

One or more protocols may be stored in a local memory. One or more protocols may be delivered to the local memory. The local memory may include a database of information for on board analysis of detected signals. Alternatively, the local memory may store the information related to the detected signals that may be provided to an external device for remote analysis. The local memory may include some signal processing of the detected signals, but may be transmitted to the external device for analysis. The external device may or may not be the same device the controller.

The local memory may be capable of storing non-transitory computer readable media, which may include code, logic, or instructions capable of performing steps described herein.

The device may comprise a local processor. The processor may be capable of receiving instructions and providing signals to execute the instructions. The processor may be a central processing unit (CPU) that may carry out instructions of tangible computer readable media. In some embodiments, the processor may include one or more microprocessors. The processor may be capable of communicating with one or more component of the device, and effecting the operation of the device.

The processor may be provided to the overall device, or may be provided to one or more module, or may be distributed over one or more module. The processor may be contained within a housing of the device. A processor may be provided on a support of a module or within a housing of a module. Alternatively, the processor of the device may be provided external to a module while within the device housing. The processor of the device may or may not be supported by a support structure of the device. The processor may be provided external to the support structure of the device, or may be integrated within the support structure of the device.

A controller 110 may be in communication with the device 100. In some embodiments, the controller may be a system-wide controller. The controller may communicate with any device. The controller may be selectively in communication with a group of devices. For example, the system may comprise, one, two or more controller, wherein a controller may be devoted to a group of devices. The controller may be capable of individually communicating with each device. In some instances, the controller may communicate with groups of devices, without differentiating between the devices within the group. The controller may communicate with any combination of devices or groups of devices.

A controller may be provided external to the device. The controller may be an external device in communication with the device. As described elsewhere herein, an external device may be any sort of network device. For example the controller may be a server, a mobile device, or another diagnostic device which may have a master-slave relationship with the device.

In alternate embodiments, the controller may be provided locally to the device. In such situations, the device may be entirely self-contained without requiring external communication.

The controller may comprise a memory or may communicate with a memory. One or more protocols may be stored on the controller memory. These protocols may be stored external to the device. The protocols may be stored in a memory and/or cloud computing infrastructure. The protocols may be updated on the controller side without having to modify the device. The controller memory may include a database of information relating to devices, samples, subjects, and/or information collected from the devices. The information collected from the devices may include raw data of detected signals within the device. The information collected from the devices may include some signal processing of the detected signals. Alternatively, the information collected from the devices may include analysis that may have been performed on board the device.

The controller memory may be capable of storing non-transitory computer readable media, which may include code, logic, or instructions capable of performing steps described herein.

The controller may comprise a processor. The processor may be capable of receiving instructions and providing signals to execute the instructions. The processor may be a central processing unit (CPU) that may carry out instructions of tangible computer readable media. In some embodiments, the processor may include one or more microprocessors. The processor of the controller may be capable of analyzing data received from the devices. The processor of the controller may also be capable of selecting one or more protocol to provide to the device.

In some embodiments, the controller may be provided on a single external device. The single external device may be capable of providing protocols to the diagnostic device and/or receiving information collected from the diagnostic device. In some instances, the controller may be provided over a plurality of devices. In one example, a single external device or multiple external devices may be capable of providing protocols to the diagnostic device. A single external device or multiple external devices may be capable of receiving information collected from the diagnostic device. A single external device or multiple external devices may be capable of analyzing the information collected from the diagnostic device.

Alternatively, the system may use cloud computing. One or more functions of the controller may be provided by a computer network, rather than being limited to a single external device. In some embodiments, a network or plurality of external devices may communicate with the diagnostic device and provide instructions to, or receive information from the diagnostic device. Multiple processors and storage devices may be used to perform the functions of the controller. The controller may be provided in an environment enabling convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that can be rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or service provider interaction.

Communication may be provided between a diagnostic device and a controller. The communication may be one way communication. For example, the controller may push down a protocol to the device. In another example, the device may initiate a request for a protocol from the controller. Or the device may only provide information to the controller without requiring a protocol from the controller.

Preferably, two-way communication may be provided between the diagnostic device and the controller. For example, a protocol may be provided from a source external to the device. The protocol may or may not be based on information provided by the device. For example, the protocol may or may not be based on an input provided to the device, which may somehow determine the information provided by the device to the controller. The input may be manually determined by an operator of the device. For example, the operator may specify one or more tests that the operator wishes the device to perform. In some instances, the input may be determined automatically. For example, the tests to run may be determined automatically based on a characteristic of the sample, which modules are available or used, past records relating to a subject, a schedule of anticipated tests, or any other information.

In some embodiments, the device may request specific protocols from the controller. In some other embodiments, the device may provide information to the controller, and the controller may select one or more protocols to provide to the device based on that information.

The device may provide information collected at the device based on one or more detected signals from one or more sensors. The sensed information may be provided to the controller. The sensed information may or may not be collected during the operation of a protocol. In some embodiments, the controller may provide an additional protocol based on the information collected during the first protocol.

The first protocol may be completed before the additional protocol is initiated, or the additional protocol may be initiated before the first protocol is completed, based on the information collected.

A feedback system may be provided wherein a protocol may be provided or altered based on information collected during a protocol or after the completion of a protocol. One or more protocol may run in parallel, in sequence, or in any combination thereof. A device may perform an iterative process, which may use instructions, actions performed based on the instructions, data collected from the actions performed, which may optionally affect subsequent instructions, and so forth. A protocol may cause the device to perform one or more action, including but not limited to, a sample collection step, sample preparation step, assay step, and/or detection step.

Within a system, a device may be capable of communicating with one or more entity. For example, the device may communicate with a lab benefits manager, who may collect information from the device. The lab benefits manager may analyze the information collected from the device. The device may communicate with a protocol provider, who may provide one or more instructions to the device. The protocol provider and lab benefits manager may be the same entity, or may be different entities. The device may optionally communicate with a payer, such as an insurance company. The device may optionally communicate with a health care provider. The device may communicate directly with one or more of these entities, or may communicate with them indirectly through another party. In one example, the device may communicate with a lab benefits manager, who may communicate with a payer and health care provider.

In some embodiments, the device may enable a subject to communicate with a health care provider. In one example, the device may permit one or more image of a subject to be taken by the device, and provided to the subject's physician. The subject may or may not view the physician on the device. The image of the subject may be used to identification or diagnostic purposes. Other information relating to the subject's identification may be used, as described elsewhere herein. The subject may communicate with the physician in real-time. Alternatively, the subject may view a recording provided by the physician. The subject may advantageously be communicating with the subject's own physician which may provide additional comfort and/or sense of personal interaction for the subject. Alternatively, the subject may communicate with other health care providers, such as specialists.

In some embodiments, diagnostic devices within a system may share resources. For example devices within a system may be communicating with one another. The devices may be directly linked to one another, or may communicate over a network. The devices may be directly linked to a shared resource or may communicate over a network with the shared resource. An example of a shared resource may be a printer. For example, a plurality of devices may be in communication with a single printer. Another example of a shared resource may be a router.

A plurality of devices may share additional peripherals. For example, a plurality of devices within a system may communicate with a peripheral that may capture one or more physiological parameter of a subject. For example, the devices may communicate with a blood pressure measuring device, a scale, a pulse rate measuring device, and ultrasound image capturing device, or any other peripheral device. In some instances, a plurality of devices and/or systems may communicate with a computer, mobile device, tablet, or any other device that may be useful for interfacing with a subject. Such external devices may be useful for collecting information from the subject via a survey. In some embodiments, one or more controller of a system may determine which device may be using which peripheral at any given moment. In some embodiments, a peripheral device may communicate with a sample processing device a wireless connection (e.g. Bluetooth).

The system may be capable of dynamic resource allocation. In some embodiments, the dynamic resource allocation may be system-wide or within a group of devices. For example, a plurality of devices may be connected to a plurality of shared resources. In one example, devices A and B may be connected to printer X, and devices C and D may be connected to printer Y. If a problem occurs with printer X, devices A and B may be able to use printer Y. Devices A and B may be able to communicate directly with printer Y. Alternatively, devices A and B may not be able to communicate directly with printer Y, but may be able to communicate with printer Y through devices C and D. The same may go for routers, or other sharable resources.

Methods

Methods for Processing Samples

In some embodiments, a single device, such as a module or a system having one or more modules, is configured to perform one or more routines selected from the group consisting of sample preparation, sample assaying and sample detection. Sample preparation may include physical processing and chemical processing. The single device in some cases is a single module. In other cases, the single device is a system having a plurality of modules, as described above.

In one example, after a sample is collected, it may undergo one or more sample preparation step. Alternatively, after the sample is collected, it may directly go to a sample assay step. In another example, a detection step may occur directly after the sample is collected. In one example, the detection step may include taking an image of the sample. The image may be a digital image and/or video.

In another example, after a sample has undergone one or more sample preparation step, it may go to a sample assay step. Alternatively, it may go directly to a detection step.

After a sample has undergone one or more assay step, the sample may proceed to a detection step. Alternatively, the sample may return to one or more sample preparation step.

After a sample has undergone a detection step, it may be output. Outputting may include displaying and/or transmitting data collected during the detection step. Following detection, the sample may undergo one or more sample preparation step or sample assay step. In some instances, following detection, additional sample may be collected.

After a sample has been displayed and/or transmitted, additional sample preparation steps, sample assay steps, and/or detection steps may be performed. In some instances, protocols may be sent to a device in response to transmitted data, which may effect additional steps. In some instances, protocols may be generated on-board in response to detected signals. Analysis may occur on-board the device or may occur remotely based on transmitted data.

A single device may be capable of performing one or more sample processing steps. In some embodiments, the term “processing” encompasses one or more of preparing the sample, assaying the sample, and detecting the sample to generate data for subsequent analysis off-board (i.e., off the device) or on-board (i.e., on the device). A sample processing step may include a sample preparation procedure and/or assay, including any of those described elsewhere herein. Sample processing may include one or more chemical reactions and/or physical processing steps described herein. Sample processing may include the assessment of histology, morphology, kinematics, dynamics, and/or state of a sample, which may include such assessment for cells or other assessment described herein. In an embodiment, a single device is configured to one or more sample preparation procedures selected from the group consisting of weighing or volume measurement of the sample, centrifugation, sample processing, separation (e.g., magnetic separation), other processing with magnetic beads and/or nanoparticles, reagent processing, chemical separation, physical separation, chemical separation, incubation, anticoagulation, coagulation, removal of parts of sample (e.g., physical removal of plasma, cells, lysate), dispersion/dissolution of solid matter, concentration of selected cells, dilution, heating, cooling, mixing, addition of reagent(s), removal of interfering factors, preparation of a cell smear, pulverization, grinding, activation, ultrasonication, micro column processing, and/or any other type of sample preparation step known in the art. In an example, a single module is configured to perform multiple sample preparation procedures. In another example, a single system, such as the system 700, is configured to perform multiple sample preparation procedures. In another embodiment, a single device is configured to perform 1 or more, or 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 10 or more assays selected from the group consisting of immunoassay, nucleic acid assay, receptor-based assay, cytometric assay, colorimetric assay, enzymatic assay, electrophoretic assay, electrochemical assay, spectroscopic assay, chromatographic assay, microscopic assay, topographic assay, calorimetric assay, turbidimetric assay, agglutination assay, radioisotope assay, viscometric assay, coagulation assay, clotting time assay, protein synthesis assay, histological assay, culture assay, osmolarity assay, and/or other types of assays or combinations thereof. In some situations, a single device is configured to perform multiple types of assays, at least one of which is cytometry or agglutination. In other situations, a single device is configured to perform multiple types of assays, including cytometry and agglutination. In an example, the system 700 is configured to perform cytometry with the aid of the cytometry station 707. A single device may be configured to perform any number of assays, including the numbers described elsewhere herein, in areas relating to Chemistry—Routine Chemistry, Hematology (includes cell-based assays, coagulation and andrology), Microbiology—Bacteriology (includes “Molecular Biology”), Chemistry—Endocrinology, Microbiology—Virology, Diagnostic Immunology—General Immunology, Chemistry—Urinalysis, Immunohematology—ABO Group & Rh type, Diagnostic Immunology—Syphilis Serology, Chemistry—Toxicology, Immunohematology—Antibody Detection (transfusion), Immunohematology—Antibody Detection (non-transfusion), Histocompatibility, Microbiology—Mycobacteriology, Microbiology—Mycology, Microbiology—Parasitology, Immunohematology—Antibody Identification, Immunohematology—Compatibility Testing, Pathology—Histopathology, Pathology—Oral Pathology, Pathology—Cytology, Radiobioassay, or Clinical Cytogenetics. The single device may be configured for the measurement of one or more or, two or more of, three or more of, or any number of (including those described elsewhere herein): proteins, nucleic acids (DNA, RNA, hybrids thereof, microRNA, RNAi, EGS, Antisense), metabolites, gasses, ions, particles (which may include crystals), small molecules and metabolites thereof, elements, toxins, enzymes, lipids, carbohydrates, prion, formed elements (e.g., cellular entities (e.g., whole cell, cell debris, cell surface markers)). A single device may be capable of performing various types of measurements, including but not limited to imaging, spectrometry/spectroscopy, electrophoresis, chromatography, sedimentation, centrifugation, or any others.

In some situations, the histology of a sample encompasses static information of the sample as well as temporal change of the sample. In an example, the sample as collected contains cells that multiply (or divide) or metastasize after the sample is collected.

In another embodiment, a single device is configured to perform one or more types of sample detection routines, such as those described elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, multi-use or multi-purpose devices are configured to prepare and process a sample. Such devices may include 1 or more, or 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 6 or more, or 7 or more, or 8 or more, or 9 or more, or 10 or more, or 20 or more, or 30 or more, or 40 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more modules, either as part of a single system or a plurality of systems in communication with one another. The modules may be in fluid communication with one another. Alternatively, the modules may be fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent from one another. In such a case, a sample transfer device may enable transferring a sample to and from a module. Such devices may accept 1 or more, or 2 or more, or 3 or more, or 4 or more, or 5 or more, or 6 or more, or 7 or more, or 8 or more, or 9 or more, or 10 or more, or 20 or more, or 30 or more, or 40 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more samples. In an embodiment, devices accept samples in a batch fashion (e.g., 5 samples provided to a device at once). In another embodiment, devices accept samples in a continuous fashion. In some embodiments, fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent modules are hydraulically isolated from one another.

In an embodiment, samples are processed in parallel. In another embodiment, samples are processed sequentially (or one after another). Devices provided herein may prepare and analyze the same sample or a plurality of different samples. In an example, devices provided herein process the same blood, urine and/or tissue sample. In another example, devices provided herein process different blood, urine and/or tissue samples.

In some embodiments, devices for processing samples accept samples of volumes of at least about 1 nanoliter (nL), or 10 nL, or 100 nL, or 1 microliter (L), or 10 μL, or 100 μL, or 1 milliliter (mL), or 10 mL, or 100 mL, or 1 liter (L), or 2 L, or 3 L, or 4 L, or 5 L, or 6 L, or 7 L, or 8 L, or 9 L, or 10 L, or 100 L, or 1000 L. In other embodiments, devices for processing samples accept samples of masses of at least about 1 nanogram (ng), or 10 ng, or 100 ng, or 1 microgram (μg), or 10 μg, or 100 μg, or 1 milligram (mg), or 10 mg, or 100 mg, or 1 gram (g), or 2 g, or 3 g, or 4 g, or 5 g, or 6 g, or 7 g, or 8 g, or 9 g, or 10 g, or 100 g, or 1000 g.

A device may perform sample preparation, processing and/or detection with the aid of one module or a plurality of modules. For example, a device may prepare a sample in a first module (e.g., the first module 701 of FIG. 7) and run (or perform) an assay on the sample in a second (e.g., the second module 702 of FIG. 7) module separate from the first module.

A device may accept one sample or a plurality of samples. In an embodiment, a system accepts a single sample and prepares, processes and/or detects the single sample. In another embodiment, a system accepts a plurality of samples and prepares, processes and/or detects one or more of the plurality of samples at the same time.

In some embodiments, one or more modules of a device are fluidically isolated or hydraulically independent from one another. In an embodiment, the plurality of modules 701-706 of the system 700 are in fluid isolation with respect to one another. In an example fluid isolation is provided by way of seals, such as fluid or pressure seals. In some cases, such seals are hermetic seals. In other embodiments, one or modules of a system are fluidically coupled to one another.

In some situations, devices having a plurality of modules are configured to communicate with one another. For example, a first device having a plurality of modules, such as the device 1000, is in communication with another device, such as a like or similar device having a plurality of modules. In such fashion, two or more devices may communicate with one another, such as to facilitate resource sharing.

Processing of a biological sample may include pre-processing (e.g., preparation of a sample for a subsequent treatment or measurement), processing (e.g., alteration of a sample so that it differs from its original, or previous, state), and post-processing (e.g., fixing a sample, or disposing of all or a portion of a sample or associated reagents following its measurement or use). A biological sample may be divided into portions, such as aliquots of a blood or urine sample, or such as slicing, mincing, or dividing a tissue sample into two or more pieces. Processing of a biological sample, such as blood sample, may include mixing, stirring, sonication, homogenization, or other treatment of a sample or of a portion of the sample. Processing of a biological sample, such as blood sample, may include centrifugation of a sample or a portion thereof. Processing of a biological sample, such as a blood sample, may include providing time for components of the sample to separate or settle, and may include filtration (e.g., passing the sample or a portion thereof through a filter or membrane). Processing of a biological sample, such as a blood sample, may include allowing or causing a blood sample to coagulate. Processing of a biological sample, such as blood sample, may include concentration of the sample, or of a portion of the sample (e.g., by sedimentation or centrifugation of a blood sample, or of a solution containing a homogenate of tissue from a tissue sample, or with electromagnetic other other beads) to provide a pellet and a supernatant. Processing of a biological sample, such as blood sample, may include dilution of a portion of the sample. Dilution may be of an entire sample, or of a portion of a sample, including dilution of a pellet or of a supernatant from sample. A biological sample may be diluted with water, or with a saline solution, such as a buffered saline solution. A biological sample may be diluted with a solution which may or may not include a fixative (e.g., formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, or other agent which cross-links proteins). A biological sample may be diluted with a solution such that an osmotic gradient is produced between the surrounding solution and the interior, or an interior compartment, of such cells, effective that the cell volume is altered. For example, where the resulting solution concentration following dilution is less than the effective concentration of the interior of a cell, or of an interior cell compartment, the volume of such a cell will increase (i.e., the cell will swell). A biological sample may be diluted with a solution which may or may not include an osmoticant (such as, for example, glucose, sucrose, or other sugar; salts such as sodium, potassium, ammonium, or other salt; or other osmotically active compound or ingredient). In embodiments, an osmoticant may be effective to maintain the integrity of cells in the sample, by, for example, stabilizing or reducing possible osmotic gradients between the surrounding solution and the interior, or an interior compartment, of such cells. In embodiments, an osmoticant may be effective to provide or to increase osmotic gradients between the surrounding solution and the interior, or an interior compartment, of such cells, effective that the cells at least partially collapse (where the cellular interior or an interior compartment is less concentrated than the surrounding solution), or effective that the cells swell (where the cellular interior or an interior compartment is more concentrated than the surrounding solution).

A biological sample may be dyed, or markers or reagents may be added to the sample, or the sample may be otherwise prepared for detection, visualization, or quantification of the sample, a portion of a sample, a component part of a sample, or a portion of a cell or structure within a sample. For example, a biological sample may be contacted with a solution containing a dye. A dye may stain or otherwise make visible a cell, a portion of a cell, a component inside a cell, or a material or molecule associated with a cell in a sample. A dye may bind to or be altered by an element, compound, or other component of a sample; for example a dye may change color, or otherwise alter one of more of its properties, including its optical properties, in response to a change or differential in the pH of a solution in which it is present; a dye may change color, or otherwise alter one of more of its properties, including its optical properties, in response to a change or differential in the concentration of an element or compound (e.g., sodium, calcium, CO₂, glucose, or other ion, element, or compound) present in a solution in which the dye is present. For example, a biological sample may be contacted with a solution containing an antibody or an antibody fragment. For example, a biological sample may be contacted with a solution that includes particles. Particles added to a biological sample may serve as standards (e.g., may serve as size standards, where the size or size distribution of the particles is known, or as concentration standards, where the number, amount, or concentration of the particles is known), or may serve as markers (e.g., where the particles bind or adhere to particular cells or types of cells, to particular cell markers or cellular compartments, or where the particles bind to all cells in a sample).

In an example, two rack-type devices like the system 700 of FIG. 7 are provided. The devices are configured to communicate with one another, such as by way of a direct link (e.g., wired network) or wireless link (e.g., Bluetooth, WiFi). While a first of the two rack-type devices processes a portion of a sample (e.g., blood aliquot), a second of the two-rack-type devices performs sample detection on another portion of the same sample. The first rack-type device then transmits its results to the second rack-type device, which uploads the information to a server in network communication with the second rack-type device but not the first rack-type device.

Devices and methods provided herein are configured for use with point of service systems. In an example, devices are deployable at locations of healthcare providers (e.g., drug stores, doctors' offices, clinics, hospitals) for sample preparation, processing and/or detection. In some situations, devices provided herein are configured for sample collection and preparation only, and processing (e.g., detection) and/or diagnosis is performed at a remote location certified by a certifying or licensing entity (e.g., government certification).

In some embodiments, a user provides a sample to a system having one or more modules, such as the system 700 of FIG. 7. The user provides the sample to a sample collection module of the system. In an embodiment, the sample collection module includes one or more of a lancet, needle, microneedle, venous draw, scalpel, cup, swab, wash, bucket, basket, kit, permeable matrix, or any other sample collection mechanism or method described elsewhere herein. Next, the system directs the sample from the sample collection module to one or more processing modules (e.g., modules 701-706) for sample preparation, assaying and/or detection. In an embodiment, the sample is directed from the collection module to the one or more processing modules with the aid of a sample handling system, such as a pipette. Next, the sample is processed in the one or more modules. In some situations, the sample is assayed in the one or more modules and subsequently put through one or more detection routines.

In some embodiments, following processing in the one or more modules, the system communicates the results to a user or a system (e.g., server) in communication with the system. Other systems or users may then access the results to aid in treating or diagnosing a subject.

In an embodiment, the system is configured for two-way communication with other systems, such as similar or like systems (e.g., a rack, such as that described in the context of FIG. 7) or other computers systems, including servers.

Devices and methods provided herein, by enabling parallel processing, may advantageously decrease the energy or carbon footprint of point of service systems. In some situations, systems, such as the system 700 of FIG. 7, has a footprint that is at most 10%, or 15%, or 20%, or 25%, or 30%, or 35%, or 40%, or 45%, or 50%, or 55%, or 60%, or 65%, or 70%, or 75%, or 80%, or 85%, or 90%, or 95%, or 99% that of other point of service systems.

In some embodiments, methods are provided for detecting analytes. In an embodiment, a processing routine includes detecting the presence or absence of an analyte. The processing routine is facilitated with the aid of systems and devices provided herein. In some situations, analytes are associated with biological processes, physiological processes, environmental conditions, sample conditions, disorders, or stages of disorders, such as one or more of autoimmune disease, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, neuronal and/or muscular degenerative diseases, cardiac diseases, and endocrine diseases.

In some situations, a device processes one sample at a time. However, systems provided herein are configured for multiplexing sample processing. In an embodiment, a device processes multiple samples at a time, or with overlapping times. In an example, a user provides a sample to a device having a plurality of modules, such as the system 700 of FIG. 7. The device then processes the sample with the aid of one or more modules of the device. In another example, a user provides multiple samples to a device having a plurality of modules. The device then processes the samples at the same time with the aid of the plurality of modules by processing a first sample in a first module while processing a second sample in second module.

The system may process the same type of sample or different types of samples. In an embodiment, the system processes one or more portions of the same sample at the same time. This may be useful if various assaying and/or detection protocols on the same sample are desired. In another embodiment, the system processes different types of samples at the same time. In an example, the system processes a blood and urine sample concurrently in either different modules of the system or a single module having processing stations for processing the blood and urine samples.

In some embodiments, a method for processing a sample with the aid of a point of service system, such as the system 700 of FIG. 7, comprises accepting testing criteria or parameters and determining a test order or schedule based on the criteria. The testing criteria is accepted from a user, a system in communication with the point of service system, or a server. The criteria are selectable based on a desired or predetermined effect, such as minimizing time, cost, component use, steps, and/or energy. The point of service system processes the sample per the test order or schedule. In some situations, a feedback loop (coupled with sensors) enables the point of service system to monitor the progress of sample processing and maintain or alter the test order or schedule. In an example, if the system detects that processing is taking longer than the predetermined amount of time set forth in the schedule, the system speeds up processing or adjusts any parallel processes, such as sample processing in another module of the system. The feedback loop permits real-time or pseudo-real time (e.g., cached) monitoring. In some situations, the feedback loop may provide permit reflex testing, which may cause subsequent tests, assays, preparation steps, and/or other processes to be initiated after starting or completing another test and/or assay or sensing one or more parameter. Such subsequent tests, assays, preparation steps, and/or other processes may be initiated automatically without any human intervention. Optionally, reflex testing is performed in response to an assay result. Namely by way of non-limiting example, if a reflex test is ordered, a cartridge is pre-loaded with reagents for assay A and assay B. Assay A is the primary test, and assay B is the reflexed test. If the result of assay A is meets a predefined criteria initiating the reflex test, then assay B is run with the same sample in the device. The device protocol is planned to account for the possibility of running the reflex test. Some or all protocol steps of assay B can be performed before the results for assay A are complete. For example, sample preparation can be completed in advance on the device. It is possible also to run a reflex test with a second sample from the patient. In some embodiments, devices and systems provided herein may contain components such that multiple different assays and assay types may be reflex tested with the same device. In some embodiments, multiple tests of clinical significance may be performed in a single device provided herein as part of a reflex testing protocol, where the performance of the same tests with known systems and methods requires two or more separate devices. Accordingly, systems and devices provided herein may permit, for example, reflex testing which is faster and requires less sample than known systems and methods. In addition, in some embodiments, for reflex testing with a device provided herein, it is not necessary to know in advance which reflexed tested will be performed.

In some embodiments, the point of service system may stick to a pre-determined test order or schedule based on initial parameters and/or desired effects. In other embodiments, the schedule and/or test order may be modified on the fly. The schedule and/or test order may be modified based on one or more detected conditions, one or more additional processes to run, one or more processes to no longer run, one or more processes to modify, one or more resource/component utilization modifications, one or more detected error or alert condition, one or more unavailability of a resource and/or component, one or more subsequent input or sample provided by a user, external data, or any other reason.

In some examples, one or more additional samples may be provided to a device after one or more initial samples are provided to the device. The additional samples may be from the same subject or different subjects. The additional samples may be the same type of sample as the initial sample or different types of samples (e.g., blood, tissue). The additional samples may be provided prior to, concurrently with, and/or subsequent to processing the one or more initial samples on the device. The same and/or different tests or desired criteria may be provided for the additional samples, as opposed to one another and/or the initial samples. The additional samples may be processed in sequence and/or in parallel with the initial samples. The additional samples may use one or more of the same components as the initial samples, or may use different components. The additional samples may or may not be requested in view of one or more detected condition of the initial samples.

In some embodiments, the system accepts a sample with the aid of a sample collection module, such as a lancet, scalpel, or fluid collection vessel. The system then loads or accesses a protocol for performing one or more processing routines from a plurality of potential processing routines. In an example, the system loads a centrifugation protocol and cytometry protocol. In some embodiments, the protocol may be loaded from an external device to a sample processing device. Alternatively, the protocol may already be on the sample processing device. The protocol may be generated based on one or more desired criteria and/or processing routines. In one example, generating a protocol may include generating a list of one or more subtasks for each of the input processes. In some embodiments, each subtask is to be performed by a single component of the one or more devices. Generating a protocol may also include generating the order of the list, the timing and/or allocating one or more resources.

In an embodiment, a protocol provides processing details or specifications that are specific to a sample or a component in the sample. For instance, a centrifugation protocol may include rotational velocity and processing time that is suited to a predetermined sample density, which enables density-dependent separation of a sample from other material that may be present with a desirable component of the sample.

A protocol is included in the system, such as in a protocol repository of the system, or retrieved from another system, such as a database, in communication with the system. In an embodiment, the system is in one-way communication with a database server that provides protocols to the system upon request from the system for one or more processing protocols. In another embodiment, the system is in two-way communication with a database server, which enables the system to upload user-specific processing routines to the database server for future use by the user or other users that may have use for the user-specific processing routines.

In some cases, a processing protocol is adjustable by a user. In an embodiment, a user may generate a processing protocol with the aid of a protocol engine that provides the user one or more options geared toward tailoring the protocol for a particular use. The tailoring may occur prior to use of the protocol. In some embodiments, the protocol may be modified or updated while the protocol is in use.

With the aid of a protocol, a system processes a sample, which may include preparing the sample, assaying the sample and detecting one or more components of interest in the sample. In some cases, the system performs data analysis with respect to the sample or a plurality of sample after processing. In other cases, the system performs data analysis during processing. In some embodiments, data analysis is performed on-board—that is, on the system. In other embodiments, data analysis is performed using a data analysis system that is external to the system. In such a case, data is directed to the analysis system while the sample is being processed or following processing.

In some embodiments, a single sample from a subject provided to a device or component thereof may be used for two or more assays. The assays may be any assays described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, a sample provided to a device may be whole blood. The whole blood may contain an anticoagulant (e.g. EDTA, Coumadins, heparin, or others). Within the device, whole blood may be subjected to a procedure to separate blood cells from plasma (e.g. by centrifugation or filtration). In an alternative, a sample containing separated blood cells and plasma may be introduced into a device (e.g. if a whole blood sample is separated into plasma and blood cells before insertion of the sample into the device). Whole blood may be used for one or more assays; in such circumstance, the whole blood may be processed (e.g. diluted) prior to the assays. A sample containing plasma and cell-containing portions may be further processed to prepare one or both of the portions for assays. For example, the plasma may be removed from the cells into a new vessel and diluted with one or more different diluents to generate one or more different sample dilution levels. The plasma samples (diluted or non-diluted) may be used for one or more different assays, including, for example immunoassays, general chemistry assays, and nucleic acid assays. In some examples, a plasma sample from an original whole blood sample may be used for at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more immunoassays, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more general chemistry assays, and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more nucleic acid assays. In some examples, the plasma samples may be used for two or more different assays that result in two or more different optical properties that may be measured (for example, an assay may result in a change in the color of the assay, a change in the absorbance of the assay, a change in the turbidity of the assay, a change in the fluorescence of the assay, or a change in luminescence in the assay, etc.). In addition, the cells isolated from the same whole blood sample described above may also be used for one or more assays. For example, the cells may be measured by cytometry. Cytometry assays may include any descriptions of cytometry provided elsewhere herein, including cell imaging by microscopy and flow cytometry. In some embodiments, cells which are centrifuged or otherwise processed in a sub-optimal anticoagulant or other buffer, reagent, or sample condition may still be used for cytometry. In such circumstances, it may be advantageous to separate the cells rapidly from the sub-optimal conditions (e.g. by centrifugation or filtration) to minimize the time the cells are exposed to the sub-optimal conditions. In some embodiments, cells are further processed to separate the cells into different cell fractions or cell types—e.g. to separate red blood cells from white blood cells. In addition, cells may be measured by other types of assays, such as general chemistry assays (e.g. to perform hemagglutination assays for red blood cell typing).

In some embodiments, methods are provided for performing with a device described herein two or more assays with a single sample from a subject, including one or more of: 1) if the sample is whole blood, separating the whole blood into plasma and cell portions, and optionally, retaining some blood as whole blood; 2) dividing an original sample of whole blood into 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, or more fluidically isolated aliquots; 3) dividing an original sample of plasma into 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, or more fluidically isolated aliquots; 4) diluting an original sample of plasma into one or more plasma samples having different dilution levels; 5) with plasma samples, performing at least one, two, or three assays of each of one, two, or three types of assays, the assay types selected from immunoassays, general chemistry assays, and nucleic acid assays; 6) with plasma sample assays, measuring assay results at least one, two, or three different detection units, such as, photodiodes PMTs, electrodiodes, spectrophotometers, imaging devices, cameras, CCD sensors, and nucleic acid assay station containing a light source and an optical sensor; 7) separating blood cells into white blood cell or red blood cell containing portions; 8) with cell-containing samples, performing at least one, two, or three assays of each of one, two, three, or four types of assays, the assay types selected from immunoassays, general chemistry assays, nucleic acid assays, and cytometry assays; 9) with cytometry assays, obtaining a digital image of one or more cells; 10) with cytometry assays, obtaining a cell count; 11) with cytometry assays, performing flow cytometry and obtaining scatter plots; 12) heating a sample; and 13) processing a sample with any reagent or chemical disclosed elsewhere herein.

In some embodiments, multiple samples may include multiple types of samples. In other instances, multiple samples may include the same type of sample. The multiple samples may be collected from the same subject or from different subjects. The multiple samples may be collected at the same time or at different points in time. Any combination of these may be provided for multiple samples.

In some embodiments, point of service systems, such as the system 700 of FIG. 7, are configured for remote treatment, such as with the aid of audio and/or visual media coupled with a communications system, such as a network or telephonic system. In an example, a subject provides a sample to a point of service system, which processes the sample to generate data is processed. Next, the system establishes a communications link with a remote healthcare provider who reviews the subject's data and provides a diagnosis. The healthcare provider then aids the subject in treatment. In an embodiment, the healthcare provider is selected by the subject.

In some embodiments, at least one of the components of the system is constructed of polymeric materials. Non-limiting examples of polymeric materials include polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polydimethysiloxanes (PDMS), polyurethane, polyvinylchloride (PVC), polysulfone, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), and glass.

Systems and subcomponents of the systems may be manufactured by variety of methods including, without limitation, stamping, injection molding, embossing, casting, blow molding, machining, welding, ultrasonic welding, and thermal bonding. In an embodiment, a device in manufactured by injection molding, thermal bonding, and ultrasonic welding. The subcomponents of the device may be affixed to each other by thermal bonding, ultrasonic welding, friction fitting (press fitting), adhesives or, in the case of certain substrates, for example, glass, or semi-rigid and non-rigid polymeric substrates, a natural adhesion between the two components.

Device Calibration and/or Maintenance

In some embodiments the device may be capable of performing on-board calibration and/or controls. The device may be capable of performing one or more diagnostic step (e.g., preparation step and/or assay step). If the results fall outside an expected range, a portion of the device may be cleaned and/or replaced. The results may also be useful for calibrating the device. On-board calibration and/or controls may occur without requiring human intervention. Calibration and controls may occur within a device housing. A device may also be capable of performing on-board maintenance. If during a calibration, operation of device, diagnostic testing, or any other point in time a condition requiring repair and/or maintenance of the device is detected, the device may institute one or more automated procedures to perform said maintenance and/or repair. Any description of maintenance may include repair, cleaning, and/or adjustments. For example, a device may detect that a component is loose and may automatically tighten the component. The device may also detect that a wash or diluents level is running low in a module and provide an alert to add more wash or diluents, or bring over wash or diluents from another module.

The system may be configured to continue to function after the removal and/or failure of certain modules.

Calibration and/or maintenance may occur on a periodic basis. In some embodiments, device calibration and/or maintenance may automatically occur at regular or irregular intervals. Device calibration and/or maintenance may occur when one or more condition is detected from the device. For example, if a component appears to be faulty, the device may run a diagnostic on associated components. Device calibration and/or maintenance may occur at the instruction of an operator of the device. Device calibration and/or maintenance may also occur upon automated instruction from an external device. The calibration and quality control (QC) cartridge is briefly described in the next paragraph. The goal of the calibration cartridge is to enable the quantitative assessment and adjustment of each module/detector of the device. For example, by performing a variety of assay steps, functionality is tested/evaluated for the pipette, gantry, centrifuge, cameras, spectrometer, nucleic acid amplification module, thermal control unit, and cytometer. Each measurement made during calibration cartridge runs with reagent controls may be compared to device requirements for precision. By way of non-limiting example, there is a pass fail outcome for these results. If re-calibration is required, the data generated is used to recalibrate the device (such as the device sensors and pipettes). Recalibration ensures that each device is accurate. Some QC can also be performed automatically in the device without introducing a cartridge. For example, the light sources in the device can be used to periodically QC the optical sensors in the device. An external device or control may maintain a device calibration schedule and/or device maintenance schedule for a plurality of devices. Device calibration and/or maintenance may occur on a time-based schedule or a use-based schedule. For example, devices that are used more frequently than others may be calibrated and/or maintained more frequently and/or vice versa. QC data may be indexed with data stored, for example, on the sample processing device or an external device.

In some embodiments, a calibration protocol may be stored on a sample processing device, or on an external device and transmitted from the external device to the sample processing device. In some embodiments, a sample processing device may communicate with an external device to provide QC data to the external device. In some embodiments, the external device may send a protocol or calibration instructions to a sample processing device based on QC data provided from the sample processing device to the external device.

In some embodiments, the device may be periodically calibrated and quality controlled. Each module, consisting of one or more hardware units, could be calibrated periodically by utilizing a calibration cartridge. The calibration cartridge may consist of a series of standard fluids, which a properly calibrated system gives a known response to. The module results to these standards could be read, analyzed and based on deviations or absence thereof, module status can be determined, and corrected for, if necessary. The calibration standards could either be stored in the device or introduced separately as a cartridge.

In some embodiments, some modules may auto-correct for any changes in the environment. For example, temperature sensors on the pipette may automatically trigger an adjustment in the required piston movement, to correct for temperature fluctuations. In general, modules where feedback regarding performance is available, may auto-correct for any changes over time.

In some embodiments, the output measurements of the cytometer may be calibrated to match results from predicate devices or devices utilizing other technologies as required.

In embodiments, a device may monitor its environment, including its internal and external environment. In embodiments, a device may provide device environmental information to a laboratory. Device environmental information includes, e.g., internal temperature, external temperature, internal humidity, external humidity, time, status of components, error codes, images from an internal camera, images from an external camera, and other information. In some embodiments, a device may contain a thermal sensor. In embodiments, an internal camera may be fixed at an internal location. In embodiments, an internal camera may be fixed at an internal location and may be configured to rotate, scan, or otherwise provide views of multiple areas or regions within the device. In embodiments, an internal camera may be movable within the device; for example, an internal camera may be mounted on a movable element, such as a pipette, within the device. In embodiments, an internal camera may be movable within the device and may be configured to rotate, scan, or otherwise provide multiple views of areas within the device from multiple locations within the device. In embodiments, an external camera may be fixed at an external location. In embodiments, an external camera may be fixed at an external location and may be configured to rotate, scan, or otherwise provide multiple views of areas outside the device. In embodiments, an external camera may be movable on or around the outside of the device. In embodiments, an external camera may be movable and may be configured to rotate, scan, or otherwise provide multiple views of areas outside the device from multiple locations on or around the outside of the device.

Transmission of device environmental information to a laboratory is useful for the oversight and control of the device, including being useful for the oversight and control of the dynamic operation of the device. Transmission of device environmental information to a laboratory is useful for maintaining the integrity of the operation and control of the device, quality control of the operation and control of the device, and for reducing variation or error in the data collection and sample processing performed by the device. For example, transmission of temperature information to a laboratory is useful for the oversight and control of the device, and is useful in the analysis by the laboratory of data provided by the device to the laboratory. For example, a device may have dedicated temperature zones, and this information may be transmitted to a laboratory.

In embodiments, a device may be configured to control the temperature within the device, or within a portion of the device. The device or portion thereof may be maintained at a single constant temperature, or at a progression of different selected temperatures. Such control improves the reproducibility of measurements made within the device, may unify or provide regularity of conditions for all samples, and reduce the variability of measurements and data, e.g., as measured by the coefficient of variance of multiple measurements or replicate measurements. Such control may also affect chemistry performance in the assay(s) and speed/kinetics of the assay reaction. Temperature information may be useful for quality control. In embodiments, a device may monitor temperature and control its internal temperature. Temperature control may be useful for quality control. A device that monitors and controls its temperature may transmit temperature information to a laboratory; a laboratory may use such temperature information in the control of the operation of the instrument, in the oversight of the instrument, and in the analysis of data transmitted from the instrument. Temperature control may also be used for regulating the speed of assays performed with the device. For example, a device may be maintained at a temperature which optimizes the speed of one or more selected assays (e.g. at 20° C., 22° C., 25° C., 27° C., 32° C., 35° C., 37° C., 40° C., 42° C., 45° C., 47° C., 50° C., 52° C., 55° C., 57° C., 60° C., 62° C., 65° C., 67° C., 70° C., 72° C., 75° C., 77° C., 80° C., 82° C., 85° C., 87° C., 90° C., 92° C., 95° C., or 97° C.).

In embodiments, a device may be configured to acquire images from within the device, or within a portion of the device. Such images may provide information about the position, condition, availability, or other information regarding components, reagents, supplies, or samples within the device, and may provide information used in control of the operation of the device. Such images may be useful for quality control. A device that acquires images from within the device may transmit image information to a laboratory; a laboratory may use such image information in the control of the operation of the instrument, possibly dynamically or in real-time continuously or in real-time but in select intervals, in the oversight of the instrument, and in the analysis of data transmitted from the instrument.

Device Security

One or more security features may be provided on a sample processing device. The device may have one or more motion sensor that may determine when the device changes orientation or is moved. The device may be able to detect if someone is trying to open the device. For example one or more sensor may detect if portions of the device are taken apart. The device may be able to detect if the device falls or is tipped over. The device may be able to sense any motion of the device or any motion near the device. For example, the device may be able to sense if an object or person gets within a certain distance of the device (e.g., using motion sensors, optical sensors, thermal sensors, and/or audio sensors). The device may be able to determine if the device is unplugged or if an error occurs on the device. Any description of actions that may occur as a result of device tampering may be applied to any other device condition as described herein, and vice versa. Accelerometer(s), vibration sensor(s), and/or tilt sensor(s) are used to determine rapid movements and jarring of the device. Optionally, cameras on the outside of the device can image and recognize their surroundings and/or provide security to the device in terms of video capture, sounding an alert, or only providing access to verified individual(s) or device(s).

In some embodiments, an alert may be provided if someone is trying to open a device, or if someone comes within the device's proximity. In some instances, an alert may be provided if the device housing is breached. Similarly, an alert may be provided if the device falls, tips over, or if an error is detected. The device may encompass a stabilization system with, optionally, shock absorbance and dampening capabilities to prevent it from tipping when for example moving in vehicles at high speeds. In some instances, if the device detects that the device is being opened, approached, or tampered with, a camera on the device may capture an image of the device surroundings. The device may capture an image of the individual trying to open the device. The data associated with the device may be sent to the cloud or an external device. The device associated with the tampering of the device, such as an image of an individual tampering with the device may be transmitted from the device. The data associated with the device, which may include one or more image, may be stored in the device. In the event that the device is not able to immediately transmit the data, the data may be transmitted once the device is able and/or connected to a network.

The device may include one or more microphone or audio detection device that may be able to record and/or relay sound. For example if a device is tampered with, the microphone may collect audio information and the audio information may be stored on the device or may be transmitted from the device.

Optionally, the device may include one or more location sensing device. For example, the device may have a GPS tracker within the device. When any tampering with the device is detected, the location of the device may be transmitted from the device. The location may be transmitted to an external device or the cloud. In some instances, the location of the device may be continuously broadcast once the tampering is detected, or may be transmitted at one or more intervals or other detected events. An owner or entity associated with the device may be able to track the location of the device. In some instances, a plurality of location sensors may be provided so that even the device is taken apart and/or one or more location sensor is found and destroyed, it may be possible to track other parts of the device. In the event that the device is unable to transmit the device location at a particular moment, the device may be able to store the device location and transmit it once it is able.

In some embodiments, the device may be designed so that it can only be opened from the inside, or be designed to be only opened from the inside. For example, in some embodiments the device does not have fasteners or screws on the outside of the device. Any mechanical fastening and/or opening features may be on the inside of the device. The device may be mechanically locked from inside the housing. The external portion of the housing may include no exterior fastening/locking mechanisms. The device may be opened from the inside upon one or more instructions from a controller. For example, the device may have one or more touchscreen or other user interface that may accept an instruction from a user for the device to open. The device may have one or more communication unit that may receive an instruction from an external device for the device to open. Based on said instructions, one or more opening mechanism within the device may cause the device to open. In some instances, the device may require electrical power for the device to open. In some instances, the device may only when plugged in. Alternatively, the device may open when powered by a local energy storage system or energy generation system. In some instances, the device may only open if it receives instructions from a user who has been identified and/or authenticated. For instance, only certain users may be granted the authority to cause the device to open.

The device may have one or more local energy storage system. The energy storage system may permit one or more portions of the device to operate even if the device is separated from an external energy source. For example, if the device is unplugged, one or more energy storage system may permit one or more portion of the device to operate. In some instances, the energy storage system may permit all parts of the device to operate. In other examples, the local energy storage system may permit certain information to be transmitted from the device to the cloud. The local energy storage may be sufficient to power a camera that may capture one or more image of the device surroundings and/or an individual tampering with the device. The local energy storage may be sufficient to power a GPS or other location sensor that may indicate the location of the device. The local energy storage may be sufficient to save and/or transmit the state of the device e.g., in a log-based journaling approach so that the device can pick up where it left off or know what steps need to be performed. The local energy storage may be sufficient to power a transmission unit that may send information relating to the device to the cloud and/or an external device.

In one embodiment, the device and the external controller maintain a security mechanism by which no unauthorized person with physical access to the device may be able to retrieve test information and link it back to an individual, thus protecting the privacy of patient health data. An example of this would be where the device captures user identification information, send it to the external device or cloud, receives a secret key from the cloud and erases all patient information from the device. In such a scenario, if the devices send any further data about that patient to the external device, it will be referred to link through the secret key already obtained from the external device.

Spectrophotometer

Spectrophotometers may contain a light source and an optical sensor, and in some embodiments, may be used for measuring any assay that may be measured by assessing an optical property of the assay reaction. For example, a spectrophotometer may be used to measure the color, absorbance, transmittance, fluorescence, light-scattering properties, or turbidity of a sample. A spectrophotometer may measure visible light, near-ultraviolet light, or near-infrared light. A spectrophotometer may be configured to measure a single wavelength of light, or a range of wavelengths. In some embodiments, a spectrophotometer may measure a range of wavelengths between 100-900 nm, such as, for example 200-600 nm, 300-800 nm, 400-800 nm, or 200-800 nm. In some embodiments, a spectrophotometer may measure an optical property of a single sample at multiple different wavelengths (e.g. the absorbance of a sample at multiple wavelengths). A spectrophotometer may be configured such that it may direct light of one or more different wavelengths to a sample and it may detect the transmittance, reflection, or emission of one or more different wavelengths of light by the sample. A spectrophotometer may direct light of different wavelengths to a sample by, for example, by containing contain a monochromator and adjustable filter, such that light from the light source may be filtered so that only a selected wavelength or range of wavelengths reaches the sample. In some embodiments, transmitted light is separated spectrally using a grating, and the spectrally separated signal is read by a spatial sensor. In some embodiments, the light source could be a broad-spectrum light source such as a Xe, Hg—Xe, Hg—Ar light source. The light source can either be pulsed or continuous, and may allow for adjustable intensity. In another example, a spectrophotometer may contain at least two different light sources which emit light of different peak wavelength ranges (e.g. different LEDs). A spectrophotometer may also be configured such that the optical sensor only detects light of a certain wavelength or range of wavelengths (e.g. by use of a filter in front of the sensor). A spectrophotometer may be a dedicated spectrophotometer (i.e. it may be optimized for performing spectrophotometric readings; for example, it may not contain extraneous hardware, such as a sample heater). Optionally, the spectrophotometer may, in certain embodiments, include an electrode or electrochemical detection unit that can be used in conjunction with optical measurements being performed. Optionally, other hardware such as heating units, cuvette holders, or the like are not excluded in other embodiments of the spectrophotometer.

FIGS. 31A-31D show a spectrophotometer 7400, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The spectrophotometer 7400 may be the spectrophotometer 714 described in the context of FIG. 7. The spectrophotometer 7400 includes a detection block 7401 (“block”) having a laser diode, light filter, a sensor (for detecting electromagnetic radiation) and a printed circuit board. In some cases, the spectrophotometer 7400 includes a controller having one or more processors. A light source, such as but not limited to a xenon light source, is located in a compartment 7402 adjacent the block 7401. The block 7401 includes a sample receptacle (or inlet) port or channel 7403, which is configured to accept a first consumable 7404 or a second consumable 7405. The first consumable 7404 is a cuvette and the second consumable is a tip. The consumables 7404 and 7405 are configured to be moved, carried and manipulated by various sample handling systems (e.g., robots) provided herein. The cuvette includes sample holders. Some embodiments may use a light source with specific wavelengths. Optionally, other embodiments do not specifically limit the wavelengths.

With reference to FIG. 31C, the first consumable 7404 is configured to be mounted in the port 7403. Individual sample holders 7406 of the first consumable 7404 are configured to be placed in the line of sight of the light source 7407 (e.g., xenon light source), either in direct line of sight or with the aid of optics. Light from the individual sample holders passes to a detector 7408 (e.g., CCD sensor) for detection. With reference to FIG. 31D, the second consumable 7405 is inserted into the port 7403 for sample detection. Light from a laser diode 7409 is directed to the second consumable 7405. Light then passes to a filter 7410, which is moved into the path of light emanating from the second consumable 7405. Light is then directed to the sensor 7408. Light from the first consumable 7404 or second consumable 7405 may be directed to the sensor 7408 using optics.

The consumables 7404 and 7405 are configured to hold a sample for detection. The consumables 7404 and 7405 may be discarded after use. The spectrophotometer 7400 in some cases is configured to hold one consumable at a time, though in some situations the spectrophotometer 7400 may hold multiple consumables during processing. In some situations, non-consumable sample holders may be used.

In one embodiment, the fluid handling device might be used to transfer an assay vessel into the spectrophotometer where an optical characteristic of the sample is measured. This characteristic may include, but not limited to absorbance, fluorescence, turbidity, etc. The spectrophotometer might include one or more sensors, capable of handling one or more sample simultaneously. Analogously, one or more signals (absorbance, turbidity, etc.) might be measured simultaneously.

The spectrometer may include a PCB board that connects to an external computer and/or processing unit. Alternatively, the computer may be part of the PCB board itself. The computer may receive data from the spectrophotometer sensor, after being processed by the board. The computer may be programmed to analyze the data sent from the board in real-time. In one embodiment, the results of the computer analysis may provide feedback to the board. The feedback may include changes in acquisition time, number of acquisitions for averaging, etc. In some embodiments, this feedback might be used to auto-calibrate the spectrophotometer components.

In some embodiments, the light source and optical sensor of a spectrometer may be oriented in-line with each other. In other embodiments, the optical sensor is at an angle to the light path from the light source (for example, 45 or 90 degrees). An optical sensor at an angle from the light path from the light source may be used, for example, for detecting light scattered by a sample or light emitted by a fluorescent compound.

Referring now to FIG. 31E, yet another embodiment of a spectrophotometer will now be described. This embodiment shown in FIG. 31E uses a different mechanism 7440 for the transport of the cuvette from the cartridge. Instead of using a pipette or other instrument to lift the cuvette out of the pipette and into the detector station, this embodiment uses a gear in the mechanism 7440 to engage gear teeth 7442 formed in the cuvette. This allows for the cuvette 7444 to be moved out from the cartridge without having to use a lifting mechanism such as the pipette, a robot, or other end-effector in the system, which then frees that hardware to perform other tasks. As seen in FIG. 31E, the cuvette may be moved to detector 7446 which may be single detector or an arrayed detector.

Referring now to FIGS. 31F and 31G, a still further embodiment of a spectrophotometer will now be described. FIG. 31F is a top-down view of a fiber-based spectrophotometer wherein the illumination source and/or the detector can be spaced apart from the sample location and are connected by fiberoptics 7460 and 7462. This may allow for greater flexibility in placement of components. Optionally, this also allows for specific illumination conditions for each sample well of the cuvette, multiple illumination wavelengths per sample well 7464, or other custom illumination or detection based on the ability to provide and receive wavelengths of light from and to certain illumination sources and detectors. By way of non-limiting example, the detector may be a single detector as shown in this figure or it may be an arrayed detector.

FIG. 31G shows a cutaway perspective view showing the inbound light pathway 7470 and the outbound light pathway 7472. This embodiment showing a fiber coupling 7474, a collimator 7476, a mirror 7478, a filter 7480, a reflector 7482, and a fiber coupling 7484 for the outbound light pathway to the detector. In one embodiment, the sample well 7464 may be part of a cuvette, or optionally, it may be an opening designed to hold a reaction vessel. A fiber-based version of the spectrophotometer can separate the illumination source and the detector from the sample handling unit. The fibers could carry the light source from a separate location, creating a shared illumination source. This provides for greater flexibility in terms of light source placement and sharing.

Optionally, there may be a cuvette that is configured to be disconnected at the detector and having features such as but not limited to ledges, ridges, lips, hands, or other features to stabilize the cuvette while it is in the detector. The spectrophotometer may have a receiving area that is shaped to accept this type of cuvette. The system may also be configured to accept a single cuvette or have a cuvette that can be loaded with other sample vessels in a sequential, non-simultaneous manner to provide greater flexibility in scheduling.

Fiberoptics can also provide for multiple channel configurations to enable greater range of excitation and detector configurations. The fiberoptics can also allow for multiple internal reflections in the cuvette designed to cause this multiple internal reflection path to extend the pathlength beyond the physical geometric pathlength of the cuvette. Some embodiment may have side walls of the cuvette that have inner wall surfaces with a convex shape such that the vessel that causes reflections of light entering therein.

FIG. 52 shows a schematic diagram of the workflow of one embodiment of the system. Steps illustrated by boxes numbered from 1 to 4 represent pre-analytic steps. Pre-analytic steps include sample collection, sample processing, reagent addition, signal generation, and transmission. Steps illustrated by boxes numbered from 5 to 8 represent analytic steps. Analytic steps include analysis of data received from a device at a sample collection site, oversight, including analysis of controls, calibrations, replicates, outliers, device and sample identification and quality information, and generation of the reportable. Transmission of the report to the health care professional represents a post-analytic step. Post-analytic steps include further review of the analysis of data, and review of report generation and of the report generated for a particular test prior to sign off by CLIA or other regulatory laboratory personnel and transmission to the physician who ordered a given test.

The publications discussed or cited herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present invention is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior invention. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed. All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to disclose and describe the structures and/or methods in connection with which the publications are cited. The following applications are also incorporated herein by reference for all purposes: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,888,125, 8,007,999, 8,088,593 and U.S. Publication No. US20120309636, PCT Application No. PCT US2012/057155, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,952, and PCT Application No. PCT/US2011/53188, filed Sep. 25, 2011. PCT Application No. PCT/US2011/53188, filed Sep. 25, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,946, filed Sep. 26, 2011, PCT Application No. PCT/US11/53189, filed Sep. 25, 2011, Patent Cooperation Treaty Application No. PCT/US2011/53188; Patent Cooperation Treaty Application No. PCT/US2012/57155; Patent Cooperation Treaty Application No. PCT/US14/16997; U.S. Patent Application 61/944,567, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,947; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,949; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,950; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,951; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,952; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,953; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,954; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/244,956, all of which applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. Any feature, whether preferred or not, may be combined with any other feature, whether preferred or not. The appended claims are not to be interpreted as including means-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase “means for.” It should be understood that as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, a reference to “an assay” may refer to a single assay or multiple assays. Also, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Finally, as used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “or” includes both the conjunctive and disjunctive unless the context expressly dictates otherwise. Thus, the term “or” includes “and/or” unless the context expressly dictates otherwise.

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What is claimed is:
 1. A method of performing at least 3 different assays selected from immunoassays, cytometric assays, and general chemistry assays on a biological sample, the method comprising: a) introducing the biological sample having a volume of no greater than 500 microliters into a sample processing device, wherein the device comprises: i) a sample handling system; ii) a detection station; iii) a cytometry station comprising an imaging device and a stage for receiving a microscopy cuvette; and iv) an assay station comprising at least a first, a second, a third, and a fourth independently movable assay unit; b) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring a portion of the biological sample to each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units, wherein a different assay is performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; c) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring the first, second, third, and fourth assay units to the detection station or cytometry station, wherein assay units comprising immunoassays or general chemistry assays are transferred to the detection station and assay units comprising cytometric assays are transferred to the cytometry station; d) with the aid of the detection station or cytometry station, obtaining data measurements of the assay performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; and e) using a controller operatively coupled to the sample handling system to instruct the sample handling system to perform a test order that is not pre-determined and is modified based on one or more detected conditions, further comprising using a plurality of sensors to monitor progress of sample processing and maintain or alter the test order or schedule wherein if the system detects that processing is taking longer than the predetermined amount of time set forth in the schedule, the system speeds up processing or adjusts any parallel processes; wherein the controller controls reflex testing, wherein a first assay is a primary test, and a second assay is a reflexed test, wherein if the result of first assay meets a predefined criteria initiating the reflex test, then the second assay is run with the same sample, wherein if a reflex test order is detected, at least some of the steps of second assay are performed before results for first assay are complete.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising inserting a cartridge into the sample processing device to locate the cartridge at a cartridge receiving location.
 3. The method of claim 2 further comprising inserting a vessel on to the cartridge, wherein the vessel contain the sample.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein the cartridge comprises a vessel having the biological sample and at least two types of pipette tips.
 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the sample processing device further comprises a touchscreen display.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the sample handling system comprises a liquid handling system.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the sample processing device further comprises a centrifuge.
 8. The method of claim 1 wherein the sample processing device further comprises a magnet tool.
 9. The method of claim 1 wherein the sample processing device further comprises a spectrophotometer.
 10. The method of claim 1 wherein the detection station comprises a light source and an optical sensor.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein an assay station configured to support i) the biological sample, ii) at least the first, the second, and the third assay units, wherein the assay units are fluidically isolated, and iii) reagents to perform A) at least one luminescence assay; B) at least one absorbance, turbimetric, or colorimetric assay; and C) at least one cytometry assay.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the controller is operatively coupled to the sample handling system, wherein the sample handling system is instructed by the controller to i) transfer at least a portion of the biological sample to first, second, and third assay units; ii) transfer the first assay unit containing biological sample to a detection station; iii) transfer the second assay unit containing biological sample to a second detection station; and iv) transfer the third assay unit containing biological sample to the cytometry station.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the biological sample has a volume of 200 microliters or less.
 14. A method of performing at least 3 different assays selected from immunoassays, cytometric assays, and general chemistry assays on a biological sample, the method comprising: a) introducing the biological sample having a volume of no greater than 500 microliters into a sample processing device, wherein the device comprises: i) a sample handling system; ii) a detection station; iii) a cytometry station comprising an imaging device and a stage for receiving a microscopy cuvette; and iv) an assay station comprising at least a first, a second, a third, and a fourth independently movable assay unit; b) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring a portion of the biological sample to each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units, wherein a different assay is performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; c) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring the first, second, third, and fourth assay units to the detection station or cytometry station, wherein assay units comprising immunoassays or general chemistry assays are transferred to the detection station and assay units comprising cytometric assays are transferred to the cytometry station; d) with the aid of the detection station or cytometry station, obtaining data measurements of the assay performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; and e) using a controller operatively coupled to the sample handling system to instruct the sample handling system to perform a test order that is not pre-determined and is modified based on one or more detected conditions, further comprising using a plurality of sensors to monitor progress of sample processing and maintain or alter the test order or schedule wherein if the system detects that processing is taking longer than the predetermined amount of time set forth in the schedule, the system speeds up processing or adjusts any parallel processes; wherein the controller controls reflex testing, wherein a first assay is a primary test, and a second assay is a reflexed test, wherein if the result of first assay meets a predefined criteria initiating the reflex test, then the second assay is run with the same sample, wherein if a reflex test order is detected, at least some of the steps of second assay are performed before results for first assay are complete; wherein all reagents for use in testing is provided by a cartridge and wherein the cartridge is pre-loaded with reagents for first assay and second assay for reflex testing.
 15. A method of performing at least 3 different assays selected from immunoassays, cytometric assays, and general chemistry assays on a biological sample, the method comprising: a) introducing the biological sample having a volume of no greater than 500 microliters into a sample processing device, wherein the device comprises: i) a sample handling system; ii) a detection station; iii) a cytometry station comprising an imaging device and a stage for receiving a microscopy cuvette; and iv) an assay station comprising at least a first, a second, a third, and a fourth independently movable assay unit; b) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring a portion of the biological sample to each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units, wherein a different assay is performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; c) with the aid of the sample handling system, transferring the first, second, third, and fourth assay units to the detection station or cytometry station, wherein assay units comprising immunoassays or general chemistry assays are transferred to the detection station and assay units comprising cytometric assays are transferred to the cytometry station; d) with the aid of the detection station or cytometry station, obtaining data measurements of the assay performed in each of the first, second, third, and fourth assay units; and e) using a controller operatively coupled to the sample handling system to instruct the sample handling system to perform a test order that is not pre-determined and is modified based on one or more detected conditions, further comprising using a plurality of sensors to monitor progress of sample processing and maintain or alter the test order or schedule wherein if the system detects that processing is taking longer than the predetermined amount of time set forth in the schedule, the system speeds up processing or adjusts any parallel processes; wherein the controller controls reflex testing, wherein a first assay is a primary test, and a second assay is a reflexed test, wherein if the result of first assay meets a predefined criteria initiating the reflex test, then the second assay is run with the same sample, wherein if a reflex test order is detected, at least some of the steps of second assay are performed before results for first assay are complete; wherein a sequence in which assays are performed is altered based on initial parameters, before assays are performed, based on one or more detected conditions, one or more additional processes to run, one or more processes to no longer run, one or more processes to modify, one or more resource/component utilization modifications, one or more detected error or alert condition, or one or more unavailability of a resource and/or component. 